We had the good fortune of connecting with Ivette Lopez / Ilopez.art and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ivette, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I had to make was to take a chance on myself and really believe in myself. Also, leaving behind the mentality of having a 9 to 5 job and coming out of my comfort zone.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I was born in Houston, TX and raised in Miami, FL. Coming from a lineage of Cuban decent and growing up in an unstable household, art was a form of expression for Me a way to release my emotions and let go. However, I was discouraged from pursuing art as a career. I distanced myself from painting and spent the majority of my career in the fashion industry. It was not until when the pandemic started in the year 2020 that I began painting again and realized that it was my true passion. I gravitated towards mediums and styles where I could use my hands and feel free to move and be creative. More recently, I have utilized acrylic paint in order to continue to use my hands, but also because the paint dries quickly and allows me to layer. I prefer abstract because it ables me to translate the emotions I has at the moment on the piece. It is through painting that the artist feels fulfilled and able to express myself to the world. I realized doing what makes you happy and brings you peace is what you should be focused on in our lifetimes. My biggest inspiration is life itself and living it to the fullest.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
There is so many beautiful and interesting places you can go and visit in Miami. One of my most favorite places to eat is a place called Matsuri , a tiny Japanese restaurant in the southwest area. It is one of the best sushi restaurants in town. I would also do Wynwood / Design District area, it has so many bars, restaurants and shops . Definitely a fun area to go and visit. Lastly, I would definitely take them on a boat ride. So they can feel the vibe and see how beautiful the Miami ocean is.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give thanks to my niece Sophie and my son Frankie for pushing me and reminding me that I can do anything I put my mind to and letting me know that I have something special to show the world. Also my family and friends that have supported me along the way and of coarse, everyone that loves my art.
Website: ilopezart.com
Instagram: @ilopez.art