Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Reni Soares. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Reni, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
I keep my creativity alive through a combination of daily practices, mindfulness, and exploration. Activities like sketching, painting, journaling, reading and listening to music are essential parts of my routine that continuously stimulate my imagination. These habits help me stay connected to my artistic instincts and allow ideas to flow freely.
Spending time alone in silence is equally important. I find that my best ideas emerge when my mind is quiet and I can truly tune into my thoughts and emotions. This quiet space allows me to process inspiration and visualize new possibilities.
The world around me is a constant source of inspiration. Whether it’s immersing myself in nature, observing everyday life, or seeking out new experiences, these moments refresh my perspective and fuel my creativity. Visits to museums also play a significant role- engaging with art history and contemporary works always sparks new ideas and motivates me to explore different techniques and themes.
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’m a figurative and abstract artist based in San Diego, CA. I was born on the Cape Verde Islands, a small and vibrant country off the west coast of Africa. My artistic journey began at a young age, inspired by my older sister, who sparked my interest in pencil drawing. Over the years, I’ve transitioned to working primarily in acrylic paints, finding the medium a perfect tool for expressing my evolving voice as an artist.
When I first started out, my influences were heavily drawn from nature, particularly the ocean. Being raised on an island, surrounded by the beauty of nature, deeply influenced my early work. Now, while those influences still play a significant role, I’ve also incorporated more nuanced themes and techniques, drawing inspiration from a wider range of sources while still maintaining a strong connection to the natural world.
My current focus has shifted toward storytelling—personal stories rooted in my lived experiences and childhood memories. They delve into narratives about people and events that have profoundly shaped the person I am today. Each brushstroke seeks to balance vulnerability with strength, shadows with light, reflecting my ongoing exploration of dualities in life and art.
This evolution in my work merges abstract and figurative elements, echoing my desire to find harmony between different facets of my identity. Whether through a vivid abstraction or a subtle figure, I aim to connect with viewers by offering windows into universal emotions drawn from my personal story. In sharing these intimate reflections, I hope to evoke a sense of recognition, resilience, and the beauty of transformation.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, the three qualities that have been most impactful are, having a passion for art, self-discipline, and resilience. My passion for art has always been a driving force, keeping me motivated and curious, whether I’m exploring new techniques or pushing the boundaries of my creative expression. This passion is what continually fuels my growth and allows me to evolve as an artist.
Self-discipline has been crucial in turning that passion into progress. Staying committed to practice, refining my skills, and pushing through challenging creative phases required a consistent effort and structure, especially when balancing figurative and abstract styles.
Lastly, resilience has helped me navigate setbacks and uncertainties. Whether facing creative blocks, criticism, or obstacles, resilience allowed me to adapt, learn, and emerge stronger, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my mom did for me was giving me her unconditional love and support. She has always been one of my biggest cheerleaders, encouraging me to pursue my dreams and instilling confidence in me by believing in my potential. Even during the toughest times, she has been by my side, offering her wisdom and guidance when I needed it most. I’m truly grateful for her presence in my life — her faith in me and her constant encouragement have shaped who I am today.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.renisoaresart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renisoaresart/
Image Credits
Featured image was photographed by Carly Julius.
All other images were photographed by me, the artist.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
