We recently connected with Vanesa Alvarez and have shared our conversation below.
Vanesa, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome is something that we, as artists, will have to deal with throughout our careers. Not only for our own self-esteem, but also because our talent is exposed to the public and criticism makes us grow, but also makes us doubt ourselves.
My trick when I have a day when I feel like an imposter is to go into my portfolio or my Instagram account and watch videos of my finished pieces. It’s impossible that an imposter created all that!
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?
My work focuses on painting murals and public art, and within that field, I specialize in working with the community.
When I create with people, we paint together and empower ourselves together, that’s when the piece becomes perfect for me.
I like to deal with topics such as social justice, feminism, and caring for the environment.
I have worked with NYC Health and Hospitals, Union Square Partnership, DOT NYC, Sing for Hope, Artbridge and Dumbo Improvement District among other wonderful institutions.
I also paint clothes, illustrate books, and have a collection of pieces created in the studio. I’m working right now on having a solo show, that would be my dream for this year!
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?
The first is undoubtedly CREATIVE THINKING applied to all areas of my work.
The second is the MIX OF DISCIPLINES, always trying to go deeper into each of the branches that support a project, documenting myself, and relying on professionals who make each part grow.
And the third is EMPATHY, dealing with people to be able to raise their voices and represent us all.
How would you spend the next decade if you somehow knew that it was your last?
Being a mother, an immigrant, and an artist in NYC.
I am full of gratitude for my life, but still being a challenge every single day
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.behance.net/vanesalvarez
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanesaalvarez/
- Other: https://vimeo.com/vanesalvarez
Image Credits
Union Square pictures by J. Kratochvil
Picture holding the canvas by Adam Freeman
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
