Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Bru.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was born in Miami, FL, to Cuban-American parents. Throughout my childhood, I enjoyed art and would happily sell my drawings to family members for $0.25. And although I loved art more than anything, I steered away from going to art school because of the “starving artist” stereotype and was conditioned by society to believe that only a few people are successful.
Confused of what I wanted to major in since I was pushed away from my passion, in 2005, I graduated from Florida International University with a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies and a minor in Visual Arts.
After graduating, I did not touch a canvas for over a decade and settled for a job in insurance. On a daily basis, I would daydream about becoming an artist but continued to give myself excuses as to why I could not work towards my passion. Finally, I realized in 2017 that I only have this life and why not work on my passion regardless of what other people tell me. There will always be people judging me no matter what I do, so might as well do something I love.
So after this self-realization, I decided to pick up a paintbrush, and I haven’t stopped painting. I have also had the opportunity to participate in two group art exhibitions at the Milander Center for Arts and Entertaining, and I’m looking forward to being an exhibitor at this year’s Super Con at the Miami Beach Convention Center.
Please tell us about your art.
Most of my artwork is based on emotions, whether it’s love, happiness, humorous, pain, or sadness. I paint what I feel at the moment. I think we live in a society that is scared of expressing emotions. In fear of being judged. And fear is the main reason why we don’t try to push forward towards our dreams. If you love someone, tell them! If you want to work towards your passion, just do it. We get so caught up on what others think that we end up letting go of our dreams. And with my paintings, I express my emotions without fear in hopes that others would be inspired to also express themselves openly.
Do you have any advice for other artists? Any lessons you wished you learned earlier?
I have learned to never give up and seek advice from other successful artists. Accept criticism as a way to improve your skills and realize that you will always be learning no matter how long you’ve been creating art.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
I have my work posted on Instagram @art.by.nbru in which is where most people commission me for artwork. I will also be an exhibitor at the Super Con on July 4th weekend in Miami Beach.
Contact Info:
- Website: Nataliebru.com
- Phone: 7866837391
- Email: artbynbru@gmail.com
- Instagram: Instagram @art.by.nbru
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