Today we’d like to introduce you to Gloria Hernando.
Gloria, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am born and raised in Miami, FL, with Dominican roots. My entire life has been dedicated to the pursuit of the arts. In addition to always painting and drawing, I had the opportunity of exploring other art forms such as ballet for thirteen years and classical piano for eight years. A family trip to Europe in 2006 inspired me to later pursue two years of architecture at the University of Miami, and three years of Interior Design at the University of Florida.
During my senior year, I felt the need to create a brand name that unified my work as an architect, designer, and artist in my portfolio. That is when I came up with Latin for Glory – a direct translation of my name, Gloria. Simultaneously, I was enduring one of the most difficult times in my personal life. I was faced with a great deal of loss, pain, and fear that was challenging to overcome. During this time, I made my first Bull piece, Eastern Expressions. It was through the Bull and learning about its powerful and positive meaning that I found my inner strength and courage. I can truly say that art saved my life.
Upon graduation, I worked a few years as a professional Interior Designer and Project Manager at KIS Interior Design, then transitioned into Press Relations for a local luxury fashion brand, Del Toro. Despite the great opportunities and achievements, I found myself unsettled in my profession and yearning to dream big. So, I saved my money, packed my bags, and purchased a one-way ticket to Madrid, Spain. I spent an entire year developing my artwork – specifically my collection of Bulls – as well as freelancing, traveling, and connecting with people from around the world. It was during my time in Spain that the Bull became the emblem of my brand and a part of who I am. I decided that I would dedicate my life to inspiring others through the Bull’s universal symbol of power, perseverance, and strength. I wanted to heal and motivate others through my craft and own experiences.
A year later, I moved back to Miami with my husband, where I spent the following three years working in marketing, and my art on the side. It was a challenging period of balancing work responsibilities, time, and finances. Eventually, the moment came where I took the risk and quit my job to become the full-time artist I was always meant to be. In 2018, I opened the first Latin for Glory studio in the Miami Design District, followed by my first solo art exhibition, Seven Fires, in May 2019. I recently hosted the month-long Let There Be Light, which was a part art gallery and part open studio. Currently, I continue to work on a new body of work, along with commissioned pieces, interior design projects, and secret collaborations.
Has it been a smooth road?
My life has been a journey full of ups and downs. I always knew that I wanted to work within a creative field, but had a difficult time settling on what that was exactly. Along the way, I encountered a lot of fear of failing, which held me back from taking some necessary risks. As I grew older, I learned that only I could make my dreams come true, and it was through the Bull that I discovered my personal power. This led to big changes such as switching jobs and industries, moving to Madrid, becoming a full-time artist, and putting together art exhibitions all on my own.
As an independent artist, my biggest struggle is funding projects and shows. Over the years, I have applied and continue to apply – to numerous grants, loans, and awards without much success. I had to think outside the box, and eventually found help through various sponsors, patrons, and donors to cover costs. It has been through the support of amazing people such as the Miami Design District that I have been able to host my own exhibitions, Seven Fires (2019), and Let There Be Light (2020).
We’d love to hear more about your art.
Latin for Glory is a multi-disciplinary firm that offers visual art, interior design, and graphic design services. All my projects hold true to the brand’s DNA – the Bull and its representation of power, strength, and glory whether it be creating a space layout, painting a mural or designing a logo, all my work ties in the same empowering concepts and message.
I am most proud of my success in doing all the things I love. Not only do I create pieces and designs that reflect the Bull’s energy, but I live my life by it. By doing so, my work goes beyond art and allows me to connect with people, and the world, in a meaningful manner.
What sets me apart from other artists and designers is my unique point of view and mission to shake up the industry. I aim to go beyond providing a final product and offer my clients and collectors an exclusive experience. Prior to starting projects, I go through an extensive process of getting to know my clients to determine their energy, wants and needs, in a way that they inspire my vision and concepts. From there, I take them on a creative journey, engaging them throughout the development process, and giving them insight into the production. Their involvement results in one-of-a-kind pieces with stories behind them.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
As a Miami native, my favorite aspect about growing up here is the diversity. I love being surrounded by people from different backgrounds, races, and cultures. It has fostered such a unique city with a variety of perspectives, ideas, cuisines, and entertainment. In addition, I absolutely love the weather and the ability to be by the ocean. As a Dominican, I truly feel at home when I am close to the sea, with the sun upon my skin, surrounded by nature. It fuels my creativity!
What I like least about Miami is that we – as an art community, are still trying to convince our general public about the importance of support local artists. Over the years, I have witnessed an increase in interest and aid from our government, as well as various art foundations, but it still feels like we have a long way to go. There is so much home-grown talent, innovation, and creativity that needs funding and involvement to grow. Miami successfully attracts international and outside talent, but we need to start putting that energy and “hype” into our own city.
Pricing:
- Limited Edition Collaboration Candles $50
- Art Prints $180 – $350
- Original artwork pricing available upon request
Contact Info:
- Website: www.latinforglory.com
- Email: info@latinforglory.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/latinforglory
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/latinforglory
Image Credit:
Ramon Olivieri
Suggest a story: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
