We recently connected with Mariana Cruz and have shared our conversation below.
Mariana , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Ever since I was a kid, I knew I wanted to be an artist, I had this knowing that my purpose was intertwined with creation. There was something about art, in all its forms, that just hit me differently, it was love, it filled a big part of my heart. I wanted to evoke in others the profound emotions that art made me fell, and just like that, my journey of creative exploration began.
Among the various mediums of art, film resonated with me the most. In our contemporary era, audiovisuals are the most influential medium, it shapes perceptions and narratives on a global scale. As an observant person, I couldn’t help but notice the injustices that exist in our reality, awakening a discomfort that demanded action. I realized film was not just a medium for storytelling; it was a vehicle for change. I saw film as a way to create something positive, to help bring people together and make this divided world a little better, even when things seem chaotic.
I’ve come to see film as a form of superpower, a means through which we can show the beauty and complexity of the human experience. My aspiration is to use this power not just to entertain, but to inspire and to remind us of our shared humanity and the beauty that lies in truly being alive. Through my work, I hope to contribute to a more connected, compassionate, and harmonious world.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I come from Colombia, where I grew up with a strong desire to make a difference in the world. As a teenager, I faced challenges, but I discovered my passion for photography and videography, which now I feel very lucky to be able to call it a career. Leaving home to study film abroad at a young age exposed me to diverse cultures and people, teaching me a sense of adaptability and empathy, shaping my worldview in profound ways.
I create and tell stories through different digital mediums, including video production, photography, animation, and design. My intention is to convey a message that touches someone’s heart and brightens their day and makes them think profoundly in within. That’s the most exciting part of what I do, connecting with others through my art and evoking genuine human emotions that resonate deeply.
My objective is to be part of the change, to be part of the new generations that motivate the world to be a better place. I am particularly drawn to creating content that not only entertains, but also educates and inspires. Also, I am passionate about promoting sustainability within the creative industry, using my platform to bring to light social issues and advocate for meaningful solutions.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I’ve always believed that everything happens for a reason. Every experience, positive or difficult, has its way to be part of your journey.
1. The one thing that has helped me the most is to get to know myself. As an artist you’re expressing a part of yourself through your form of art. Knowing yourself makes you more confident, helps to trust in who you are and what you know, as well as to learn your strengths and limits which overall help you become the best version of yourself. Trust in your intuition.
2. Everything passes. Life can be rough sometimes, we don’t always feel the best, but we have the choice to decide what defines us. As difficult as this might sound for some situations, there are two ways to deal with hard times; either you don’t heal and reflect the pain or you decide to learn from it and transform it into something that can help you and others. This is the beauty in art, it can be used as a healing tool. Embrace the pain and enjoy the bright moments. All these experiences are what make you, you.
3. Be curious about life. Always keep learning new things, you only get to live once as this person so make it count. Yes, I went to film school and learned a lot, but there are so many skills that I had to learn on my own and practice on my own. Try new things, not only professionally, but dedicate time to you as a person aside from your career, you are not your career. This boosts your creativity and makes you feel fulfilled with life which consequently helps your career. Keep the balance.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
It’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times, work gets tiring or there is simply too much going on. This is the most important time to be kind to yourself.
We need to find that balance that works for us. Break the overwhelming task or situation into smaller, more manageable steps. Focus on completing one step at a time rather than trying to tackle everything at once. Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or colleagues for support and advice. Talking to someone else about how you’re feeling can provide valuable perspective and support. Take care of your physical and emotional well-being by getting enough sleep, eating health, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities you enjoy.
Life is not only work. Just take a deep breath, sometimes we make problems bigger than what they really are. Most importantly of all, we think these society “goals” are what we should be, but they are simply not realistic and make us feel disappointed with ourselves. Find something that works for you.
Contact Info:
- Website:marianacruz.art
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marsphy/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariana-cruz-08aa6b262/
- Other:
