We recently had the chance to connect with Coco Martinez and have shared our conversation below.
Coco, 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: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me involves lots of coffee in the morning, checking email and checking on the posts of my artwork. I follow mostly other artists and the ones that follow me always give me feedback. Go to the gym most days, and then settle down to work in the afternoon.
Once I start working on a design, I work off and on all day until about 12:30 AM. Before sleep, I do what I call “deep looking”. I may spend an hour looking at the day’s work and making decisions about it. My last thoughts before sleep always involve what I’m working on-and sometimes I will continue the process while dreaming.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I always took art lessons as a kid, and majored in art at college. I spent the beginning of my career in visual merchandising at Macy’s, first on the window staff and later as an assistant director. From there I became the visual manager of 14 duty free stores at JFK Airport. I also did freelance commissions of major windows at Bergdorf Goodman and (the former) Henri Bendel. I have designed the floral decorations for a number events.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I would say my grandfather gave me the most attention as a child. He was a poet and scholar who took the time to cultivate me with poetry, history and art. It was with my grandparents that I first went to Europe.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering was always caused by stepping away from my creative self at the times that practical demands had to come first. The discomfort caused by trying to conform to a situation that does not suit you, teaches you that one’s career should truly be based on your talents and interests or you can’t be your true self. That is hellish.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
I can’t be anything but myself. Maybe it’s a consequence of being an artist and marching to the beat of your own drum so to speak. Finding it impossible to conform (even if you try) or be part of any herd.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I actually kind of grade myself at the end of every day to make sure I did my best in each facet of my life- and used my time well. I don’t expect praise, it’s a matter of setting standards for myself.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: coconycdesigns
- Linkedin: coconycdesigns
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