We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Monica Guerrero a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Monica, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
Something a lot of people don’t know about me is that I’ve had Rheumatoid Arthritis since I was a child. For many years, it was something I’d try to keep hidden and during the worst flareups I’d be isolated, away from others and much activity. However, when I moved to the United States I witnessed the power of openness and support. I met a woman on a beach, and she asked about the scar from my knee replacement. Her shared experience and words of encouragement gave me a newfound sense of pride on improving my health, and I no longer felt I had to hide.
Much like my approach to wellness, I navigate every aspect of my life one step at a time. Challenges can be conquered by focusing on what I can do, rather than dwelling on limitations. This year presented its own set of hurdles, preventing me from working with clay, so I redirected my energy toward watercolor painting, embracing it as a source of solace and self-expression.
Through my art, I offer a message of hope to others who may be grappling with their own obstacles. Just as I embarked on a journey of betterment, others also may find the strength to fight difficulties and pursue their dreams. The lessons learned from confronting arthritis echo in my creative process, reminding me to persist, adapt, and forge ahead with unwavering determination.
My advice to others is to work out your challenges, seek support from those who understand, and remember that every obstacle can be an opportunity for growth.
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?
My work is whimsical and colorful. I create happy vignettes with a touch of nostalgia that bring smiles to people’s faces. The aesthetic of Designs by Moni appeals to both children and the young at heart, offering a delightful escape into a world of imagination. All my illustrations are painted using traditional watercolors, which I later digitize to create greeting cards, postcards, prints, and charming decorative items. These creations embody the essence of innocence, joy, and optimism that radiate from my paintings, invoking smiles and touching hearts.
My artistic journey revolves around the joy of storytelling through imagery. Each character and scene I paint carries a narrative people identify with. My art invites others into a world filled with optimism and charm. The response from my audience has been incredibly heartening, as they often share how my illustrations resonate with them, adding a spark of happiness to their lives.
This year, I’m thrilled to invite my loyal customers to two special events in St. Petersburg: the Voodoo Market on Central Ave on October 29th, and the exciting Shopapalooza event on November 25th and 26th. I’ll be hosting a booth at both markets, and look forward to meeting those who have been part of this beautiful journey.
While I primarily showcase my work through galleries and Tampa Bay stores such as The St. Pete Store, Happy Flamingo, Florida CraftArt, Dunedin Art Center, and Manatee Art Center, it’s really exciting to participate in markets, so I can connect directly with my community, sharing the magic of art and exchanging stories that inspire us all.
And if you’re seeking a touch of my whimsy from afar, I’m hoping to have my cards available at select shops nationwide, starting with Guilford Art Center in Connecticut!
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?
Improving my drawing and painting skills, which involves relentless practice and continuous learning through classes. I also find inspiration from visiting galleries, museums, and exhibitions.
Remain curious and in touch with my inner child. Every element of my surroundings tells a story, from the squirrels in my garden to the tales shared by my friends. For instance, this year I introduced a new character, Raven, a tuxedo cat who playfully peeks out of my new Halloween-themed cards.
I believe in persistence and determination. My stubbornness drives me to pursue my goals and has me diving deep into subjects I want to master or has me reaching out to galleries I want to collaborate with.
To my fellow artists, my advice is to define your aspirations and break down your goals into manageable steps. Persistence is key, coupled with learning. Remember, the artistic community is generous in offering advice and support.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When life becomes overwhelming, I turn to a few strategies that restore my balance and reignite my creative spark. One of my most cherished retreats is my garden. Tending to the plants, nurturing new growth, and connecting with the natural world brings me solace. As I prune, water, and observe butterflies, I am transported to tranquility that lifts away the pressures of the day.
The birdsong and playful squirrels create a harmonious backdrop, soothing my senses and offering respite. Working in the garden not only allows me to create an enchanting space but also grants me the gift of mindfulness. My worries fade, and I am fully present in the moment, which restores my inner equilibrium. It also keeps my body active, a refreshing change from my mostly seated work.
To fellow artists navigating the ebb and flow of creative overwhelm, I suggest seeking out pockets of serenity that resonate with your soul. Nurture your garden, enjoy a movie, join a book club, or have dinner with friends. These moments can rekindle your passion, re-energize your spirit, and infuse your art with your soul.
Contact Info:
- Website: DesignsbyMoni.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designsbymoni/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/designsbymoni
Image Credits
Monica Guerrero Brian Becker
