Today we’d like to introduce you to Maricruz Ortiz.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was raised in Dorado, Puerto Rico. My mother was an artisan and also an artist; I learned a lot from her. I used to draw from an early age but never painted. We moved to Orlando, Florida when I was 15 and when I graduated from high school, I moved to Long Island, NY to study Digital Arts and Animation at Katharine Gibbs. I moved back to Orlando and was introduced to painting on canvas, using the skills I was taught when I was studying in New York, I was able to create works of Art.
I quickly sold my first painting and haven’t stopped since. I have tried working regular 9 to 5 jobs, but nothing brings me joy like painting does. I decided to do it full time about a year ago, and I have no regrets. I am raising three beautiful girls and want to show them that hard work does pay off especially when you believe in yourself and your talent. I keep busy doing private events where I paint live or art strolls where I sell my art. I also sell a lot of my work online and social media. I am very excited to see what else comes my way.
Please tell us about your art.
I love painting animals and butterflies! Butterflies have great meaning to me. I went through a tough period in my life where I wasn’t able to do what I loved, and I felt trapped like in a cocoon, but when I broke free, I was able to fly like I am now. Animals are a meaning of life and strength. I enjoy creating pieces of different animals that have different meanings. I was hesitant about creating portraits, but when I started, I wanted them to be colorful and full of positive, happy energy. I love getting requests of portraits because everyone seems so happy and excited about it and that’s what I want to see my art express! I also create a lot of lips! My lips are a series I created; different shapes have different meanings, someone can relate to one of my lip paintings.
As an artist, how do you define success and what quality or characteristic do you feel is essential to success as an artist?
As an artist success to me means doing what you love! It doesn’t feel like work at all, and if you want to succeed, you must keep learning and practicing so that you can become better than yesterday.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I have a website and also Instagram where I sell most of my art @artbymaricruz. I do display at different galleries, but they change monthly. It’s best to follow me on Instagram and view my upcoming events there.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.artbymaricruz.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbymaricruz/?hl=en
Image Credit:
Maricruz Ortiz
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