We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Xochilt Garcia a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Xochilt, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
I believe there is beauty and being different from one another. I think that having a uniqueness is important to one’s individuality. I know that a lot of us grew up thinking that being different was negative but truly it’s something that a lot of people don’t embrace. Many still fear not fitting in with one another, sticking out too much, or sharing an opinion that just might turn others against them. But, being different is necessary to create variety and excitement in this world.
It can be scary and lonely, feeling like you’re the only one in the room that’s like you, but in the end, it is the greatest power you could ever have.
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?
Every year I do an interview just like this, and every year I feel it becomes harder to describe “who” or “what” I am. I am simply an artist. I love doing all things creative and over the past few years I’ve opened up to the idea of creating in all mediums. Being introduced to sound and revisiting music. Going back to a medium I felt I hated but gave myself the patience to learn. I can’t say I am all things creative, but I can certainly say I’ve fallen in love with learning. One is never a master at anything, no matter how masterful someone may be perceived there is always space for growth. And I will treat my career as such.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
In my journey so far I’ve learned that growth in your craft also comes from growth in yourself. I’ve learned that time is valuable, and patience is a virtue that many have. Something that I would advise to people who are starting off is to learn to believe in yourself. I believe creatives are talented, but no matter how talented you are you should never mistreat people. You are above no one and no one is above you. Your followers on social media don’t matter. Lastly, just keep going because you never know who’s watching. Do it for you, and no one else.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
At the moment I am. Recently, I’ve started a project called Virtu that is being ran by myself and Christopher Fuentes. This project is funded by the California arts council and community partners. We are always looking for musicians and creatives to feature at our events and podcasts. You can connect with us on instagram at vrtu.arts!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @theuguudesuuguu
Image Credits
Portrait by: Mychal Sorensen
