Laura Reyes shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Laura, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
I visited my family in Mexico and painted a mural with their help. It made me proud to see how willing my extended family was to contribute. Each of them helped in their own way. Some of my cousins filled in the colors, while my uncle found a large studio light and set it up on the roof of his house across the street so we could see to paint when it got dark. My great aunts made tamales and brought them to us while we were working! Sometimes, with the distance between us, it feels like there’s a disconnect, but while working on the mural, we were all able to connect through art.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Laura, and I’m an illustrator! My work focuses on visual storytelling, creating art that carries a narrative. A huge part of my mission is sharing my Mexican culture; I believe it is essential to produce work that reflects and represents my community, especially during such challenging times.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
The part of me that harbors self-doubt. I realize now that it was built as a defense mechanism, like it was a way to keep myself safe. However, as I continue to work and advance in my career, I see that it’s no longer protecting me; it is holding me back.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to not worry so much about what others at school think of her, or feeling like she needed to belong somewhere. I would tell her that it’s okay to try to interact with everyone.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
It is a version of me, but not the whole picture. In public, I am naturally more reserved. The ‘full’ version of me really comes out when I’m comfortable with friends. I let my guard down, joke around, and show my more outgoing side.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I think I would. I am hard on myself personally. Even if no one acknowledged or praised the work, knowing I didn’t give it my all wouldn’t sit right with me. The feeling of knowing I gave my best effort is more important to me than the praise itself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://laurareyesillustration.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/pastellas
Image Credits
Artist photo by Janice Rodriguez
Photos of me painting by Rodrigo Reyes
Photo of me drawing chalk art by Zoila Galvan
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
