Q: Can you tell us about a time pitching your work, whether to a gallery, client, or brand that didn’t go quite as planned, and what you took away from it?

A: At the beginning of the year, I did something totally outside my comfort zone: I walked into a local gallery and introduced myself. It was my first time pitching my work in person, and while I was proud for taking the leap, the experience didn’t go quite as I had hoped. The curator let me know there wouldn’t be availability until next year, and when I showed her some of my recent pieces, her reaction was… well, pretty neutral. We just didn’t seem to click.

At first, I felt disappointed. But after sitting with it, I realized something really important: not every space is going to be the right fit—and that’s okay. This gallery catered to a very specific audience, and my work speaks to something different. I create for people who feel something when they see my art, no matter where they come from. That reminder gave me clarity. I’d rather find the right people than force the wrong fit.

Q: Which connection—mentor, peer, or collector—has fueled your practice the most, and how did that relationship or encounter shape where you are today?

A: It’s hard to choose just one person—I’ve been incredibly lucky to have a strong support system made up of mentors, collectors, friends, and family who have encouraged me every step of the way. But one connection that’s made a huge impact, especially with the growth I’ve experienced this year, is Enrique Del Angel, a talented metal artist I connected with on Instagram. 

From the very beginning, Enrique has been generous with his advice, especially when I was preparing for my first pop-up art event. He’s always shown up to support and share my work, and that kind of encouragement has pushed me to grow not just in confidence, but in how I carry myself as an artist. His belief in me has truly helped shape where I am today, and I’ll always be grateful for that connection.

Q: How do you envision your practice evolving over the next few years in terms of medium, scale, or the themes you wish to tackle?

A: Over the next few years, I really want to push myself creatively, starting with larger scale pieces. I’ve mostly worked smaller in the past, so I’m especially excited about a 20 x 30 commission I have coming up later this year. It’s a big step for me, and I see it as the beginning of a new chapter. I also hope to expand the reach of my work and have it shown in more places across the country.

One dream of mine is to be part of Art Walk in San Diego, a huge annual event that I’ve admired for a while now. Beyond scale and exposure, I want to create art that tells more of my story. I’m really drawn to the idea of digging deeper into my own experiences and identity, and letting that vulnerability guide my work. I think that’s where the most meaningful connections can happen.

Q: What practical advice would you give emerging artists aiming to turn their creative practice into a sustainable, long-term career?

A: Be kind to yourself and take it one step at a time. Turning your art into a career doesn’t happen overnight, and that’s okay. Keep showing up, even on the days when things feel slow or uncertain. Share your work, even if it’s not “perfect”. You never know who might connect with it. For me, building real relationships, especially through social media, has made such a difference. People support people they feel connected to, so don’t be afraid to let them see you behind the art.

Also, don’t wait until you feel “ready”, because truthfully, you may never feel 100% ready. Just start. Say yes to opportunities that scare you a little. You’ll learn as you go, and that’s part of the beauty of it. And lastly, remember that your voice and your art are valuable. The right people will find you, just keep creating from the heart.