We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ninotchka Barrios. Check out our conversation below.
Ninotchka, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
I’m definitely wandering.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Ninotchka Barrios-Hecht. Everyone calls me Nino. I’m Venezuelan-American currently based in Barcelona, Spain. I’m a watercolor artist focusing on self-portraiture. I started off studying theater but painting took over after I took a stage rendering class at FIU where we learned how to use different mediums, I learned a lot really fast. I’m currently working on growing my portfolio. Since my work is mostly based around painting my own image, I want to show I can render other people, animals, objects and places as well. With this expanded portfolio, I’d like to get more commercial work.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
I felt powerful pretty young. My dad would do my hair at 6am every morning before school and it was an extremely put together-gelled-slicked back-high ponytail. Being on time at school, homework done, ham and cheese arepa in lunch box, face clean and pulled tight from the ponytail gave me this clean confidence that’s hard to forget. After school, I’d do rhythmic gymnastics and since I’m hyper mobile I was just really good at it from the beginning and that made me feel on top of the world.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Ha! I always give up. I gave up on my swimwear brand, I gave up acting, I’ve quit many jobs, given up on paintings, etc. It’s okay. I think as long as you keep your head high, keep learning from your mistakes every day, stay healthy and always yearn for more its fine to put certain projects on hold and reevaluate what you’re really working towards.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
My fitness journey.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
The story of me trying to launch a swimwear brand by myself at 22 is pretty iconic.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ninotchkabh.com
- Instagram: @ninotchka.bh
- Twitter: @brunchatninos
Image Credits
G. Duque
