Meet Jasser J Membreno

We recently connected with Jasser J Membreno and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jasser J, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.

Through my creative practice, meditation, and a willingness to challenge myself, I’ve embarked on a transformative journey of self-discovery and healing. Each canvas becomes a mirror in which I confront my fears and vulnerabilities, using art as a tool to navigate the complexities of my own psyche.

This journey hasn’t been easy—it’s required me to take risks, to embrace discomfort, and to be unapologetically vulnerable. But with each step forward, I’ve emerged stronger and more resilient, shedding the cloak of imposter syndrome and reclaiming my voice as an artist with authenticity and conviction.

Finding support through art communities has been instrumental in this process. By connecting with like-minded individuals, volunteering, teaching, and engaging in art advocacy, I’ve built a network of support that has enriched my practice and reinforced my belief in the transformative power of art. These actions have allowed me to give back, to inspire others, and to continue fostering dialogue, understanding, and empathy within the broader community.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

I am currently working on a new art series that will feature my unique characters and the fantastical world they inhabit, each with their own compelling stories. Additionally, I am developing a series titled “Monstruos y Colores,” which focuses on mental health awareness. This series explores the duality of darkness and light, advocating for mental health awareness and fostering dialogue to support this mission and help others. These concepts are the foundation for a larger series of murals I aim to paint around Los Angeles, eventually expanding to other parts of the world.

One of my most ambitious projects is the creation of an art organization and studio called Casa Monstruos. Casa Monstruos will harness the power of art to spark conversations, foster connections, and inspire change. Our vibrant and captivating artwork transcends boundaries, blending surrealism, darkness, and playfulness to deliver a powerful message of mental health awareness and community support. Casa Monstruos aims to become a recognized hub for meaningful art, advocating for inclusivity, equity, and support for marginalized communities, especially the BIPOC community.

Through our unique art, art prints, merchandise, mural painting services, art classes, and artist collaborations, we strive to create an immersive experience that resonates with art enthusiasts, mental health advocates, community members, and educational institutions alike. Inspired by my trips to El Salvador last year, where I engaged with other art organizations and exchanged innovative ideas with local artists, I plan to build a bridge between Los Angeles and El Salvador, using art as a catalyst for change in both communities.

To bring this vision to life, I am seeking community support, funding, and partnerships. Collaborations with local businesses, mental health organizations, educational institutions, and fellow artists will be crucial in amplifying our impact and creating lasting change. Together, we can foster a vibrant and inclusive environment that celebrates the transformative power of art.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, the three qualities that were most impactful in my journey were resilience, creativity, and the ability to foster community connections. Resilience helped me overcome obstacles, from imposter syndrome to personal traumas, and it requires facing challenges head-on and learning from them. Creativity allowed me to bring my imaginative worlds to life and address complex themes like mental health, and developing it involves immersing oneself in diverse experiences and exploring different artistic mediums. Fostering community connections provided invaluable support and inspiration, and it entails actively seeking out communities, volunteering, collaborating, and participating in events. For those early in their journey, I advise staying resilient, nurturing creativity, and building a supportive network, as these elements will enhance your artistic practice and provide a solid foundation for personal and professional growth.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

Yes, I am actively looking for folks to partner and collaborate with. I am particularly interested in working with artists, mental health advocates, educators, local businesses, and community organizations who share a passion for using art to inspire change and foster mental health awareness. Additionally, I am eager to collaborate with artists and organizations currently working in Central America, as I aim to build a bridge between Los Angeles and Central American communities through art. Ideal collaborators are those who are open to exploring creative projects, such as mural painting, art classes, and community events, that blend imagination with social impact.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jassermembreno.com
• Instagram: @jassermembreno
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasser-membreno-95047b15/

Image Credits

Ilfredo Amaya