Meet Marian Paternina

 

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Marian Paternina a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Marian , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

I wouldn’t say I’ve fully found my purpose yet, but I know I’m on the path to understanding it. It’s something I’m discovering through the practice of different disciplines and the creative process involved in everything I do. Each step, each project, brings me closer to conceptualizing what my purpose truly is. In every stroke of paint and in every choice of color, I discovered a deeper connection to who I am. Art with Design became more than just a way to express myself—it became a way to be fully present in the moment and to explore the beauty in the world around me. As I immersed myself in my craft, I realized that my purpose lies in creating, in using art as a bridge to connect with the vastness of life, and in sharing that connection with others. It’s about being in the flow, appreciating the now, and inviting others to see the magic in the everyday.

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

I’m naturally restless, creative, spontaneous, and ambitious. Creating allows me to express myself and move from a starting point to the completion of a process, where I unify a series of steps. I’m a designer by degree and an artist by devotion. My inspiration to create art actually came from practicing a sport—I customized my wakeboard, which was the starting point for my brand, “Holo Wai.” The name is Hawaiian and means “flowing water,” symbolizing the flow of a natural element. For me, water is life, and when it flows, it’s like living water. Riding my board, I felt the call to create, a message that is intrinsic in each practice—to live in the present with complete attention, recognizing that we are part of constant movement. Recently, the coolest project I worked on was illustrating for the US soccer captain, Christian Pulisic. Here in Miami, on Calle 8, for the facade of Stomping Grounds.

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?

Curiosity: I’ve always been naturally curious, constantly asking questions and seeking new experiences. This curiosity pushed me to explore different forms of art, design, and even sports, like wakeboarding, which became a key source of inspiration for my brand. I’d advise embracing exploration—don’t be afraid to try new things or step outside your comfort zone. Curiosity is what keeps creativity alive and opens you up to new possibilities.

Adaptability: Being able to adapt has been crucial. Whether it’s working across different mediums or adjusting to client needs, flexibility allowed me to merge my technical design skills with my passion for art. I recommend staying open to change and challenges. Learning to pivot when necessary will help you grow and keep your work evolving.

Commitment to Authenticity: Finally, being true to myself has had a huge impact. My art is an expression of my personal journey, and I always aim to infuse my work with that authenticity. Early on, you might feel pressure to conform to trends or expectations, but staying authentic to your vision will help you stand out. The best way to develop this is by constantly reflecting on what resonates with you personally and integrating that into your work.

In short, embrace curiosity, stay adaptable, and always be true to yourself—those are the foundations that have shaped my path.

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

Yes, I’m always open to collaboration! I’m especially interested in partnering with people who share a passion for creativity, innovation, and storytelling. Whether you’re a fellow artist, designer, musician, or someone from a completely different field, as athlete. I’m excited about working with individuals who are curious, open-minded, and driven by a desire to push boundaries and explore new ideas.

I’m looking for collaborators who bring fresh perspectives and who value the process as much as the end result—people who are passionate about blending art, design, and culture in ways that resonate with audiences on a deeper level. Whether it’s a creative project, a design venture, or even an experimental collaboration that merges art with other disciplines, I’m eager to explore the possibilities.

If you’re interested in collaborating, you can connect with me through my social media platforms or email. I’d love to hear your ideas and see how we can create something unique together!

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