We had the good fortune of connecting with Alma Grace and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Alma, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I think when it comes to making art and pursuing a career in art it’s all about taking risks. About 3 years ago I was in a retail job I absolutely despised. I wasn’t pursuing my own work or taking any pictures, and instead spent day in and day out selling shoes at a store in the mall. When I realized that this job was becoming my life, and in turn making me very depressed, I decided to take a risk and quit on the spot, despite having no backup and no other form of income. A couple months later I ended up finding work within an art museum that fully allowed me to immerse myself in contemporary art and in turn starting to develop my own photography in a way that I hadn’t done in years. Separate from that, I took a risk when I decided to study art history while at university. My parents always wanted me to pick a major that guaranteed an income – something like hospitality or journalism. However, I knew that if I didn’t take that risk and follow my heart in studying art, I would look back 10 years down the line and always regret never taking that chance. In the end, taking a risk has become part of my philosophy of life. I am an adamant believer that when you take chances that are true to your heart, when you take that leap, there will always be something to catch you when you fall.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I definitely am very proud of my creativity and imagination. Recently I’ve been creating full sets for my photographs, using more props to tell a story. Getting here definitely was not easy, as it requires a lot more planning, a lot more hands to help, and a lot more money and time. I believe I am only in the middle of my journey, so I definitely know there are more challenges coming my way, and I am fully prepared to face them. However, there is something fun about finalizing a shoot that has taken months to plan, and seeing the end results. It brings a great deal of satisfaction, and the best part is sharing the photos with the whole team that helped me and seeing them be proud of the work, too.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, the beach, definitely! My favorite beach to go to for photoshoots as well as a peaceful day in the sun is in Key Biscayne. The sand dunes are legendary and the palm trees always offer such nice shade. A trip to Miami wouldn’t be the same without a grand tour of my favorite art museums in the city – Rubell Museum, de la Cruz Collection, and ICA Miami. In terms of food, my favorite restaurants are Seaspice (for their grilled octopus and their fantastic location on the river), Mandolin (amazing menu) and KYU in Wynwood (just a great avocado salad). A delicious coffee spot would be Panther Coffee, which has many locations across the city.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I definitely want to shout out my friends that help me out every time I have a crazy idea I want to shoot, like making a moon out of plywood. Also, my family who supports me in my career endeavors.
Website: almagrace.cargo.site
Instagram: milkandhoneymiami