Meet KIKI By Kirenia Alvarez

We had the good fortune of connecting with KIKI By Kirenia Alvarez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi KIKI by Kirenia Alvarez, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business in epoxy resin art was a journey filled with uncertainty and excitement. I didn’t even know what epoxy was at first, which made the whole process a bit daunting. I was afraid I wouldn’t achieve any success, and the idea of starting something new without a clear direction was intimidating. However, I had a strong desire to create something exclusive, special, and unique.

It took me over six months to finally decide to create jewelry for walls, which was a concept I felt passionate about. Initially, I had doubts about my first KIKI. But once I completed it, I fell in love with the result. That moment was pivotal for me – I realized that I had discovered my true passion for art. It was a rewarding experience that ignited my creativity and motivated me to dive deeper into this fascinating medium.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey into the world of art has been quite unconventional. In 2008, I began my professional career as a receptionist in a bank, gradually working my way up to establish a successful 15-year career in the banking industry. While I appreciated the stability and structure of that world, the spark for creativity always lingered in the background.

The turning point came during the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many, I found myself reevaluating my life and passions while navigating the challenges of lockdown. It was during this time that I discovered epoxy resin art. Initially, my curiosity drove me to explore this new medium, and it quickly blossomed into a deep passion. Although it wasn’t easy starting from scratch in a completely different field, I was determined to embrace this new path.

What sets my art apart is how I blend vibrancy with elegance, creating pieces that capture light and depth in truly unique ways. I love experimenting with colors and techniques, allowing each artwork to reflect my creative spirit. The diversity in my work—ranging from bold, abstract designs to minimalist expressions—showcases my commitment to exploring the limitless possibilities of epoxy resin.

I’m most proud of how far I’ve come since that initial spark of inspiration. Completing my first KIKI was a pivotal moment that ignited my passion for art and propelled me to dive deeper into this captivating medium. Each piece I create tells a story, not just through the art itself but also through the emotions and experiences that inspired it.

Of course, there have been challenges along the way. Overcoming self-doubt and the fear of venturing into the unknown was daunting. I faced uncertainties about whether my art would resonate with others or if I could turn it into a viable career. However, surrounding myself with supportive family and friends, who have been my biggest cheerleaders, gave me the confidence to persevere. The encouragement I received helped me push through moments of insecurity and propelled me to strive for excellence.

Throughout this journey, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about resilience, the importance of community, and the power of following your passion. I want the world to know that my brand is more than just epoxy resin art—it’s a reflection of my journey, my emotions, and my dedication to creating beauty. My creations carry pieces of my story, and I hope they resonate with others, bringing joy and inspiration to their lives.

I am excited about the future and the possibilities that lie ahead in this artistic realm. Every day, I am grateful for the opportunity to express myself and connect with others through my art. My dream is to continue growing as an artist and to inspire others to pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional the path may seem.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting Miami for a week, I’d want to create an unforgettable itinerary packed with amazing food, fun activities, and opportunities to soak in the vibrant culture. Here’s how I’d plan the week:

Day 1: Welcome to Miami Mimi!
Start with brunch at The Biltmore for their caviar bar and delicious desserts.
Next, head to Wynwood Walls to enjoy the incredible street art and murals. A stroll around the Wynwood Market is a must for local crafts and food.
For dinner, we’ll indulge at Smith and Wollensky for their delicious meat and decadent chocolate dessert.

Day 2: Beach Day
We’ll hit up Miami Beach for some sun, sand, and relaxation.
After lounging on the beach, we can rent bikes to ride along the Ocean Drive Boardwalk.
Dinner at Prime One Twelve awaits us, followed by drinks and dancing at Mango’s Tropical Café where we can enjoy some lively Cuban salsa.

Day 3: Cultural Immersion
A visit to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens will provide us with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
Then, we can explore Little Havana for more Cuban delights—grabbing some pastelitos and visiting local shops. Ball & Chain is perfect for catching some live music!
To wrap up the day, we’ll enjoy a sunset cruise around Biscayne Bay with a few drinks onboard, taking in the breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Day 4: Adventure and Nature
We’ll take a trip to the Everglades National Park for an exciting airboat tour! It’s a great chance to spot alligators and unique wildlife.
Afterward, we can have a picnic lunch in the park before heading back to the city.
Dinner at Varsol Sushi Bar in Coconut Grove will be an unforgettable dining experience.

Day 5: Arts and Shopping
Visiting the Perez Art Museum Miami (PAMM) will be a great way to get our art fix.
We can then explore the upscale shops at Bal Harbour and grab a light lunch at Avenue 31 Café.
In the evening, we’ll check out The Fillmore Miami Beach for a concert or show, or catch a performance at the Adrienne Arsht Center.

Day 6: Fun in the Sun
Brunch at Manolo for delicious sandwiches and desserts will kickstart our day.
We can soak up more sun at South Pointe Park and take a dip in the ocean.
For dinner, we’ll head to Makoto in Bal Harbour for a fancy meal, followed by a nightcap at the SLS South Beach rooftop bar.

Day 7: Relax and Reflect
We’ll start with a leisurely breakfast at Big Pink for some indulgent fare.
Then, we can spend time at Lincoln Road Mall for last-minute shopping and people-watching.
For our grand finale, we’ll have dinner at Zucca for high-end Italian cuisine, capping off the week with drinks at E11EVEN, Miami’s iconic nightlife spot.

This week would be a fantastic mix of culture, adventure, delicious food, and relaxation—perfect for making unforgettable memories together in Miami! Love you Mimi.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to some incredible people who have been instrumental in my journey. First and foremost, I’m eternally grateful to my family and friends—they’re my biggest fans. A special shoutout to my mom Mary, who treasures my first KIKI, and my stepdad Omar, who has always supported me. My sister Kenia deserves recognition for loving everything I create and for wanting to collect all of my pieces (she really does want them all, lol!). My precious angel, love you Sis.

I can’t forget my cousins Dudu, Niurki, and Tata, who have always cheered me on. My best friend Yane has been a constant source of support, standing by me in every way possible. I also want to give a huge thank you to the person who helped set up my first exhibition and has been there for every one since. No matter the weather, whether under the sun or rain, he has always stood by me, showing unwavering support without needing sleep, feeling hungry, or tired. I’m incredibly grateful to you, (YMF)!

Lastly, my most special thanks go to my daughters, Isabella and Isaura. They inspire me to do my best and give me every reason not to fail. They keep my dreams alive and my spirit high. All of you are the reason I keep smiling, creating, and waking up every day!

Website: https://www.KIKIbyKireniaAlvarez.com

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Image Credits
Lizandra Parra
Zeenemas Photography
KIKI