Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Bibi Fuentes. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Bibi, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
Creativity is at its most potent when it draws from the raw, unfiltered realities of the human experience. For me, music, art, and writing are the vessels through which I can capture the subtleties of what it means to be alive—the complexities, the contradictions, and the deep emotions that shape us. My work isn’t just about creating beautiful things—it’s about weaving an undertone of the real, messy, and beautiful truths of human existence.
Art, in all its forms, has this power to speak to the parts of us that are often unspoken or unnoticed. Whether I’m painting, writing, or composing music, I strive to tap into the deep emotions that color the human experience. Art, for me, isn’t about perfection; it’s about truth. There’s a rawness in the human condition that is sometimes difficult to put into words, but music allows me to build a bridge between that raw emotion and the explicit expression of that tension, that joy, that sadness, that yearning. It’s the undercurrent of our feelings—the quiet ache, the bursts of joy, the silences between the words—that gives art its soul.
Music, in particular, has always been a gateway for me. It has this ability to mirror the full range of human emotion in a way that words and images sometimes can’t. The ebb and flow of a melody, the tension in a chord progression, the simplicity or complexity of rhythm—all of these elements can convey deep emotional landscapes. When I write music, I often find myself reflecting on the same themes that show up in my visual art and writing—the fleeting nature of time, the way we try to hold onto moments, the clash of light and dark within us. There’s something universal about the experience of listening to a song or piece of music and feeling it resonate deep within.
Art, too, serves as an expression of this reality. When I draw or create something visually, I try to encapsulate the feeling of a moment—the quiet sorrow of a glance, the weight of a word left unsaid, or the frenetic energy of a crowd. My paintings are not just about what’s in front of me, but about the deeper layers of what’s happening beneath the surface—the emotional landscape that pulses just below the skin. The selection of colors and the strokes I make are a true representation of the joy, pain, longing and beauty that exists within the human condition.
Writing, too, serves as a kind of catharsis. It allows me to put into words what I can’t always express otherwise. It’s where I untangle my thoughts and emotions, trying to give voice to the complexities of life. My writing often reflects the rawness of life’s unpredictability—exploring the moments of joy and sorrow that shape us and the contradictions that define our existence. It’s in these words that I find an outlet for the full spectrum of human emotion—words that attempt to capture the ineffable and hold space for the unspoken truths that make us who we are.
In teaching, I often bring these themes into the classroom—not as a heavy-handed lesson, but as an invitation for students to explore their own emotions and experiences through their own creative lenses. While my role as a teacher is to guide them, it’s also a reminder for me to stay connected to the pulse of my own creativity. Watching students find their voice, their own way of expressing the complexities of life, challenges me to keep pushing myself as well. It’s a shared experience where the creative energy isn’t just coming from me; it’s flowing between us all, giving shape to the room in ways I can’t predict. They hold me accountable for pursuing my own dreams as I push them to reach for the stars. It’s a beautiful form of symbiosis.
In the end, the heart of creativity lies in the human experience itself. It’s about deeply feeling the world—its highs and lows—and translating those emotions into something meaningful. By staying attuned to the messiness of life and allowing that to push my creativity forward, I keep my art alive, vibrant, and ever-evolving. It’s through this constant interplay with the world, the people around me, and my own inner landscape, that creativity remains not just alive—but essential.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Originally from the vibrant chaos of Florida, I’ve found a new home in Portsmouth, Virginia, where I bring a fresh perspective to the 757 art scene. Specializing in pen and ink, I transform simple tools into intricate works of art, often drawing inspiration from the contemporary tattoo style to explore the raw truths of the human experience. My pieces are a blend of striking detail and emotional depth, offering a bold commentary on the complexities of life.
When I’m not bringing life to the page, you can find me teaching the next generation, strumming a guitar, or scribbling down words that may or may not make it into a future novel. With every stroke of the pen, I invite others to explore the beauty and struggle of being human—because if life is a canvas, it’s better to embrace the imperfections.
With each piece, I hope to encourage reflection, provoke thought, and offer a new perspective on the world. It’s art that’s not just seen, but felt.
Currently, I have an exhibit at For All Handkind in the MacArthur Center in Norfolk, VA, for the month of April, debuting on the 11th. The artist showcase was created by local artists in the 757. I’ll also be vending at Portsmouth’s 2nd annual Mural Art Festival on May 10th, where I’ll be showcasing new artwork available for purchase.
I’m actively seeking opportunities within the area to further showcase my artistic and musical talents. Whether through gallery exhibitions, singing performances, or collaborative projects, I’m eager to explore creative avenues that foster connections with like-minded individuals and communities. The dynamic intersection of music and art offers vast potential for innovation, and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the cultural landscape.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, I’d say the three most impactful qualities in my journey were: advocating for myself, reaching out to my community for support, and embracing constructive criticism (even though that one felt like pulling teeth at first). Each of these skills has been a game-changer for me, and I highly recommend them to anyone starting out—whether you’re an artist, musician, or even just trying to figure out your creative mojo.
I quickly learned that if I didn’t speak up for my work, no one else would. Advocating for yourself isn’t just about asking for what you want, it’s about knowing your worth—even when the world (or your imposter syndrome) tries to tell you otherwise. If you’re just starting out, practice this muscle. Don’t wait for someone to knock on your door with an opportunity. Knock on it yourself. It’s less about being pushy and more about being confident that your art deserves attention.
I also learned that no one does it alone—especially in the creative world. If you try, you’ll probably end up talking to yourself in a mirror, which is fine but not exactly productive. Building a supportive network of fellow artists, mentors, or even just friends who get your creative struggles can do wonders. Ask for help, share your work, and lean on people who have been through the grind. Trust me, your community is out there, and they’re probably just as eager to support you as you are to support them.
Constructive criticism used to always feel like a personal attack, but now I welcome it with open arms.. Here’s the deal: without it, you’re stay stuck in your comfort zone, which is nice, but not exactly where the magic happens. When someone offers feedback, it’s not because they want to rain on your parade; they want you to take your work to the next level. So, I had to swallow my pride, set my ego aside, and learn to welcome those critiques as growth opportunities. To anyone just starting out: take it on the chin. It’s like a little tough love for your creativity.
So, to all the newbies: be your own biggest fan (and maybe your own personal hype team), surround yourself with folks who understand the hustle, and don’t run from feedback–It’s the secret ingredient to becoming a better, more well-rounded creative.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
In the past 12 months, my biggest area of growth has definitely been stepping out of my comfort zone and putting myself out there more. I took a big leap and participated in my first art show at The High Cup in Norfolk, VA. It was a huge step for me to showcase my work publicly, and not only did I have the chance to display my art, but I also sold both of the pieces I featured! This experience really pushed me to take my art promotion seriously and not shy away from sharing it with the world. I’ve been challenging myself to keep putting my work out there, even when it feels a bit intimidating, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see the positive response. I’m excited to keep growing, sharing, and pushing myself further in the creative space.
I’m buzzing with excitement about the new opportunities on the horizon—whether that’s collaborating with other creatives, showcasing my work in new exhibits, or hitting the stage for a performance. I’m all about mixing things up and bringing fresh energy to every project I dive into. Plus, I’m open to commissions and opportunities to create something unique—so if you’ve got a cool idea or need an artistic partner-in-crime, let’s make it happen. I’m ready to keep pushing boundaries, having fun, and seeing where these new adventures take me!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atlasartistxo/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bianca-fuentes-724713210/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/bibi.fuentes
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