Meet Socorro Rico

We were lucky to catch up with Socorro Rico recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Socorro, you’ve got such an interesting story, but before we jump into that, let’s first talk about a topic near and dear to us – generosity. We think success, happiness and wellbeing depends on authentic generosity and empathy and so we’d love to hear about how you become such a generous person – where do you think your generosity comes from?

My generosity is deeply rooted in the profound impact that my teachers, family, friends, and community have had on my journey as an artist. Growing up as a Mexican American, I was surrounded by a rich cultural heritage that celebrated communal support and shared success. This foundation was further solidified through my experiences in undergrad and grad school.

During my undergraduate years in printmaking, I was fortunate to have mentors who not only imparted technical skills but also emphasized the importance of collaboration and mutual respect. They taught me that art is not created in isolation but is a reflection of the collective experiences and contributions of those around us. Their unwavering support and encouragement instilled in me a deep appreciation for the power of generosity.

As I transitioned into painting, my family and friends became my pillars of strength. Their constant belief in my potential and their willingness to provide emotional and sometimes financial support were invaluable. My community also played a crucial role, offering me opportunities to showcase my work and connect with fellow artists. These connections fostered an environment of shared learning and growth, where generosity was a natural and essential part of our interactions.

In graduate school, I encountered challenges that tested my resolve, but it was the generosity of my peers and professors that helped me navigate those difficult times. Their willingness to share their knowledge, offer constructive feedback, and provide a listening ear was instrumental in my development as an artist. This culture of giving without expecting anything in return reinforced my belief in the importance of generosity.

My journey has been shaped by the countless acts of kindness and support from those around me. Their generosity has not only enabled me to develop my skills and overcome challenges but has also inspired me to give back in any way I can. Whether it’s through mentoring aspiring artists, volunteering in community art projects, or simply offering words of encouragement, I strive to honor the spirit of generosity that has been so integral to my own growth.

In essence, my generosity comes from a profound sense of gratitude for the many individuals who have contributed to my journey. It is a way to honor their impact on my life and to ensure that their legacy of support and kindness continues to inspire others.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

As a first-generation Mexican-American woman with immigrant parents, my journey as an artist has been shaped by my experiences, heritage, and the challenges of navigating multiple identities. My work is deeply intentional, focusing on the intersection of my cultural background and personal struggles, particularly the trauma that often accompanies such a unique path.

Creating art that reflects my experiences as a woman of color allows me to connect with others who share similar stories. It’s about building a bridge between my personal narrative and the broader community, fostering understanding and solidarity. One of the most exciting and special aspects of my work is its vulnerability. I challenge myself to visually convey complex and often painful subject matter in a way that resonates with others, creating a shared space for reflection and dialogue.

In Kansas City, I am fortunate to be a part of the Cherry Pit Collective, a private art studio where I collaborate with an incredibly talented group of artists. My studio mates inspire me daily with their creativity, support, and guidance. This collaborative environment is crucial to my artistic growth, as it pushes me to explore new techniques and perspectives.

Looking ahead, I am eager to expand my horizons by attending a residency in Mexico. This opportunity will allow me to delve deeper into my roots and further explore the cultural connections that influence my art. By immersing myself in the rich artistic traditions of Mexico, I hope to bring new dimensions to my work and continue to build a vibrant, inclusive community.

Ultimately, my art is a testament to resilience and connection. It’s a way to honor my heritage, address the complexities of my identity, and engage with others in meaningful ways. Through collaboration and exploration, I aim to create a body of work that not only reflects my personal journey but also inspires and uplifts those who encounter it.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

1. Exploring Drawing Styles:
One of the most impactful aspects of my journey was testing different drawing styles. Realism was never my strength, but through various courses and assignments, I discovered my affinity for linear drawing styles influenced by children’s books, coloring books, and tattoo flash. By merging these influences, I developed a unique style that felt natural to me. My professors encouraged me to reach out to artists who inspired me, emphasizing that many appreciate admiration and are willing to share their insights. For those starting out, I recommend experimenting with various styles to find what resonates with you and don’t hesitate to connect with artists you admire.

2. Understanding the Power of Color:
Color theory has been a crucial area of knowledge in my artistic development. The ability to convey visual language through color is powerful, and I’ve found a palette of five colors that consistently represent my context effectively. For beginners, I suggest studying color theory and experimenting with different palettes to understand how color can evoke emotions and convey messages. Trust your instincts and find a color scheme that feels authentic to your work.

3. Building a Sense of Community:
The quality that has significantly contributed to my success, including showing at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, is the sense of community. Through connections, artist relationships, and thoughtful interactions, I’ve become part of a collective voice. I’m grateful for the support of fellow artists who think of me for exhibitions and interviews like this one. For those early in their journey, I advise cultivating a supportive network by attending art events, collaborating with peers, and being open to forming genuine connections. Community can provide opportunities, inspiration, and mutual growth.

In summary, exploring diverse drawing styles, mastering the use of color, and fostering a strong sense of community have been pivotal in my artistic journey. These elements not only helped me develop my unique voice but also connected me with others who share and support my passion.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

I often experience periods of what I call “empty inspiration,” where creativity feels elusive. During these times, I make a conscious effort to pause and reduce the self-shame that comes with feeling unproductive. I approach my creative practice in baby steps.

One strategy that works for me is creating a simple “homework assignment” for myself, where I just doodle without any pressure to produce a significant visual idea. The act of putting pen or pencil to paper, without any expectations, helps me reconnect with my creativity.

From there, I explore my art supplies to find something that sparks excitement. This small thread of interest gradually leads me back to drawing and creating again. This cycle happens regularly, and I’ve learned to embrace it as a natural part of my artistic process.

For anyone feeling overwhelmed, my advice is to allow yourself to take small steps and remove the pressure to create something grand. Focus on the joy of the process rather than the outcome, and be gentle with yourself during these periods of low inspiration.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Socorrorico.wordpress.com
• Instagram: Socorroricos