Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cecilia Beaven. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Cecilia, 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 regularly attend art shows at museums and galleries, as well as lectures and talks, screenings, and any other artistic or cultural events that sound interesting. I get inspired by seeing what other creators are doing and how they address contemporary issues. It makes me feel part of a community and part of a larger conversation.
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’m a Mexican visual artist based in Chicago. I also travel a lot to Houston, where I’ve done several murals and artwork. My art is multidisciplinary, it includes painting, drawing, ceramics, comics, and animation. I’m interested in the idea of developing a speculative mythology with my artwork. This mythology draws from Mexican mythology and folklore, and seamlessly combines fiction and personal anecdotes.
I’m currently preparing for a solo show in January 2024 at Cleaner Space Gallery in Chicago. I am currently part of the exhibition “Día de Muertos: A Time to Grieve & Remember” at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago.
In Houston, you can find my artwork for sale at Reeves Gallery. And you can buy tote bags with my illustrations at Cucharita Bakery (where I did a mural and all the artwork!)
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
1. Create opportunities independently. Reach out to your friends and show them what you’re doing, organize exhibitions, etc. Instead of waiting for larger institutions to recognize your work, put yourself out there. 2. Keep a student’s mind. I think it’s important to stay humble and willing to learn. There are always new techniques to learn, new theories to dive into, and new ideas to be exposed to.
3. Share. Teach if you can; it’s a great way to share what you know. Be in touch with creative communities and exchange knowledge and support.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client is someone who respects my vision and who is willing to work with me trusting my ideas. I’ve been lucky to have many clients like this and a crucial part of building this network was to learn to say no to clients that want to limit my creativity.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ceciliabeaven.com
- Instagram: @samuraiceci
