Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sandra Duran Wilson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Sandra , we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
I chose this question because it’s an area where I still find myself facing difficulties, yet I continue to move forward. I believe this experience resonates with many, not just those involved in the arts. It differs from imposter syndrome—it’s more about one’s core identity.
Growing up, I had two athletic older brothers who often dared me to step outside my comfort zone and teased me with unflattering nicknames. My father encouraged me to go above and beyond, even when I achieved high grades, while my mother was admired for her beauty and social nature. I often felt like the odd one out, but my passion for learning, reading, creating art, and exploring new places set me apart. The urge to venture beyond our small hometown motivated me to embrace experiences that challenged me. Every time I conquered a difficult situation and confronted my fears, I reminded myself that having survived that, I could take on even greater challenges.
Pursuing my dreams and consistently confronting fears and obstacles helped me build confidence over time. True self-esteem, however, emerged after overcoming my greatest hurdle. Though my twenties might have seemed fearless, deep down I struggled with an inner emptiness. Seeking help for my addictions marked the beginning of real self-worth. Now, more than thirty years later, I recognize that it was the process of battling through hardships and confronting my fears that ultimately fostered the confidence to embrace genuine self-esteem. Now people often comment on how I have created the dream life, and yes, I have, but it wasn’t easy but it was worth the struggles.
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?
As a visual artist, my main focus is painting, often using unconventional materials. I create what I call 3-D paintings by layering painted cast acrylic pieces and sealing them together with resin. I have created hundreds of YouTube tutorials, and I taught workshops around the globe. In addition to this, I work on environmental installations. My experience includes two international residencies focused on this area, and right now, I’m developing an installation project in the burn scars left by forest fires in New Mexico.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, I see that three qualities had the greatest influence: a passion for experimenting, an eagerness to learn from outcomes, and an ability to blend scientific and artistic perspectives. My curiosity—always wondering what might result from trying something new—drove much of my creative growth. Raised by both scientists and artists, I naturally merged these worlds in my thinking, which shaped my academic path as I pursued degrees in both science and art. The technical aspects of printmaking particularly appealed to me.
To those just starting out, I recommend engaging with your passions every day. Approach life with curiosity, break routines, and embrace new experiences. Make a habit of creating—whether it’s a quick sketch, a poem, or even a new recipe. Pushing beyond conventional boundaries will open meaningful opportunities. Be open to saying yes, even if you feel uncertain. When I began my first book, I tackled it one chapter at a time, and over the years, I’ve completed six books.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Other artists have helped my career. We formed a critique group years ago and meeting with them expanded my talent and my career. We met and discussed techniques, business opportunities challenges and more, Friendship and collaboration can hold you up when you are struggling and they are there to celebrate your successes. I went on to become a mentor for groups of artists online and to develop a YouTube channel with almost 200 instructional and inspirational videos.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sandraduranwilson.com/about
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandraduranwilson/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sandraduranwilsonartist#
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/sandraduranwilson
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