We recently connected with Pola Galindo and have shared our conversation below.
Pola, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
I find inspiration in the vibrant landscapes of Arizona, from the majestic white Mountains to the captivating sunsets that paint the valley with rich colors. Every day, I step into my studio with a blank canvas, ready to capture the beauty that surrounds me.
Having relocated from Oregon nearly four years ago, time has flown by, but my passion for art remains unwavering. I constantly strive to keep my creativity alive by exploring new techniques and pushing the boundaries of my self-taught skills.
Over the past 25 plus years, I have honed my abilities in silversmithing and lamp working, teaching myself along the way. This continuous learning process has allowed me to infuse the colors and schemes of the desert and sunsets into my artwork.
The world is a vast palette of colors, but Arizona, in particular, holds a special place in my heart. It provides a constant source of inspiration, making it effortless to keep my creativity alive.
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?
I find great joy in the process of creating these unique Art Boot pendants. Using a combination of Italian murano glass, bulls eye glass, and other types of glass, I carefully craft each piece with precision and attention to detail. To enhance their beauty, I finish the pendants with sterling silver and 14k gold, and I even add precious gems to the bottom of each boot. These elements come together to create one-of-a-kind art pieces that are truly exceptional. Art designed to be worn and displayed, allowing everyone to appreciate its beauty.
What truly brings me happiness is when a customer purchases one of my art pieces and experiences genuine excitement. Witnessing their enthusiasm and appreciation for something I have created is incredibly rewarding. It is this feeling that ignites my passion and motivates me to continue creating new and unique art pieces.
Every art piece I create is copyright and trademarked by me, Pola Galindo. This ensures that each piece is authentic and exclusive to my brand. By maintaining this level of quality and craftsmanship, I strive to provide my customers with art pieces that they can truly cherish.
In conclusion, being an artist and creating these Art Boot pendants brings me immense joy. The satisfaction of seeing customers excited about my work fuels my passion and inspires me to keep pushing the boundaries of my creativity. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my art with the world and create meaningful connections through my unique pieces.
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?
The qualities that have profoundly shaped my artistic journey are creativity, perseverance, and patience. As a self-taught artist, I have embraced experimentation as a daily practice, consistently developing and refining my techniques to achieve the desired outcomes for my art. This process often involves multiple attempts—sometimes upwards of a hundred—before I perfect a technique that aligns with my vision.
My unwavering commitment to this craft stems from my belief that art, much like the individual creator, is inherently unique. Each piece I produce is a reflection of my growth and evolution as an artist. Over the course of 27 years, I have dedicated myself to honing my skills, and the results speak for themselves: my work continues to improve with time. The adage “practice makes perfect” resonates deeply with me, as I recognize that consistent effort is the key to mastery in the arts.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Feeling overwhelmed is a common experience for many artists, including glass artists. At times, I encounter creative blocks, particularly when preparing for an upcoming show and facing the pressure to produce more pieces. In these moments, I find it essential to take a step back and regain my composure.
I often take a break to go for a drive or enjoy a peaceful moment in the park, immersing myself in the beauty of sunsets and the vibrant colors that the world has to offer. This change of scenery allows me to clear my mind and regain my inspiration. When I return to my studio, I find that this simple act of stepping away helps me refocus and reignite my creativity, enabling me to get back on track and continue creating.
If you’re feeling similarly overwhelmed, I encourage you to explore strategies that resonate with you, whether it’s taking a break, seeking inspiration in nature, or engaging in a different creative outlet.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.polagalindoglassart.com
- Instagram: polagalindosglassart
- Facebook: Pola Galindos Glass Art
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