Today we’d like to introduce you to Felicia Marí Luxama
Hi Felicia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Art has been my lifeline. It is where I’ve found solace, self-discovery, and a sense of purpose. When I started my artistic journey, I was in a deep, personal abyss. Through photography, I began to explore the world around me and more importantly, myself. It was a way to connect with the woman God had created.
My childhood was a kaleidoscope of cultures. With a Haitian father and a Puerto Rican mother and Brooklyn, New York as my backdrop, I was raised in a vibrant tapestry of art and diversity.
I’ve always been creative, from dance to music to visual arts. It was with photography that I truly connected on an emotional level. It was a way to capture moments, emotions, and perspectives that were uniquely mine. The disposable camera was my entry point, allowing me to capture self-portraits and street scenes. As technology evolved, I embraced the iPhone’s camera, using it to document everything around me.
Instagram hadn’t yet taken off, so I was focused on creating for myself. Over time, I realized that my perspective was unique, and I was inspired by the way others captured their subjects. My first major breakthrough came in December 2016 when I was invited to exhibit my work at the Rueda Gallery during Art Basel. That experience validated my artistic abilities and gave me the confidence to pursue my passion. Unfortunately, life had other plans, and I had to temporarily pause my photography to care for my ailing grandmother.
During that time, I honed my skills further, experimenting with digital editing and creating collage style pieces. To my surprise, these works resonated with people, and I started selling them online. One of my art works made the full front and back cover pages for Broward College art magazine P’an Ku in the Spring of 2021. While I am grateful for the support, I still strive to make a living solely through my art. While I aspire for my art to fully support my lifestyle, I’ve had to balance it with a career in education.
Art is my sanctuary, providing mental stability and healing. It’s a passion that has extended beyond photography. I founded Mama Lunita’s, for the best gourmet homemade empanadas, and Deyes Lux & Co., a holistic health and the intersection of art and spirituality.
I am excited about the future because I know this is just the beginning. Art continues to shape my life and bring me joy, and I am eager to see where it takes me next.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Being an artist is anything but a smooth road. One of the most challenging experiences I’ve faced was pausing my career to care for my grandmother. While it was difficult, it was also a time of immense growth. I learned so much about myself as a woman and granddaughter that I never knew existed. These experiences have enriched my art.
Artist’s block is a real challenge. There are times when inspiration seems elusive. But I’ve learned that during these moments, it’s important to pause, be still, and be present in the moment rather than dwelling on the need to create.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
In addition to being an artist, I work for the Broward County School Board as an After-School Supervisor and Teacher’s Assistant for children with special needs. This unique blend of experiences sets me apart. I am currently the School-Related Employee of the Year and currently up for Broward County School Board’s Caliber Award; which recognizes outstanding work of teachers, principals, assistant principals and school board related employees. I’m passionate about art, education, and making a positive impact, and I have found ways to combine these passions.
Even within my professional role, I’m known for my creativity. I’ve established a Step Dance Team, served as an art facilitator, and now, as a program supervisor, I’m focusing on integrating the arts into the curriculum and reducing screen time.
My artistic practice has evolved to become more politically and spiritually charged. I want my work to provoke thought and spark conversations about the world around us.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was always a bit of an enigma. On one hand, I was drawn to creative expression like a moth to a flame. Dancing, singing, reading, and creating were a constant part of my life. My parents must have gotten really tired of the loud music and my tendency to retreat into my own world. But on the other hand, I had a deep connection to energy and vibrations that set me apart from my peers. This intuitive understanding has guided me throughout my life.
I also had a hyperactive mind, which made it difficult to stay focused on one thing. Creating art was always my escape, a way to channel my energy and find a sense of calm. When I was immersed in the creative process, all of my thoughts and worries would fade away, leaving me in a state of pure bliss.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.felipixels.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deyesluxco/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deyesluxco
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CallMe_Feli
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@deyesluxco
Image Credits
Felicia Luxama.
