Meet Taylor Cavazos
We had the good fortune of connecting with Taylor Cavazos and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Taylor, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor has been staying true to my roots and embracing authenticity in my work. Early on, my colorful, patterned artwork found an audience, but it wasn’t until I leaned into my Mexican-American upbringing that I truly found my stride. Growing up along the border of Mexico, I was surrounded by rich cultural traditions and vibrant stories that have deeply influenced my art. Today, I focus on painting calaveras, those beautifully intricate sugar skulls associated with Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos), and creating textured, three-dimensional pieces that celebrate Mexico’s history and culture. My work often features recurring motifs of Frida Kahlo, La Virgen de Guadalupe, and other iconic figures. By tapping into these personal and cultural inspirations, I’ve been able to create art that resonates deeply with people, bringing a genuine and heartfelt connection to my audience.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Creating art, or anything for that matter, is a journey that requires patience and dedication. It definitely isn’t easy. Admittedly, looking back at my older paintings, I sometimes cringe at how they look but remember how far I’ve come. I’ve learned to see these pieces as markers of my growth, each representing a step on the path to refining my skills and finding my unique voice. Success takes time. It’s a gradual process that requires patience and dedication but when you are passionate about what you do, success becomes a natural outcome.
To continually evolve as an artist, I seek inspiration by meeting other artists, attending art shows, and taking art classes to get out of my comfort zone like pottery and oil painting.
I also want the world to know that doing what you love is the surest path to success. It may take time, and there will be obstacles, but with persistence and a genuine love for your craft, you will achieve your goals.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My ideal day would start in Wynwood, admiring the 200+ murals in the neighborhood that make this area a living, breathing art gallery. The vibrant street art is a perfect way to kick off the day, and we’d follow it up with coffee and pastries at Zak the Baker, my favorite spot in the city.
As the sun climbs higher, we’d escape the heat by heading to El Espacio 23, where Jorge Perez’s extensive art collection is on display. Afterward, we’d head to Citadel for lunch, enjoying a diverse range of delicious foods from Jamaican cuisine to fresh seafood caught along our coast.
Afternoons would be spent exploring Miami Beach, starting with a stroll to Faena Art District and the Bass Museum of Art. After soaking in all the art, we’d relax on the beach, basking in the sun and people-watching.
We’d end our days at the Standard Hotel, enjoying sunset drinks, good music, and each other’s company.
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?
Miami as a whole, characterized by its vibrant and artist-friendly community, has been a significant catalyst in my artistic development. The numerous arts organizations in the area have motivated me to elevate my work to new heights. In particular, I owe a great deal of gratitude to Dan and Kathryn Mikesell, the founders of Fountainhead Studios and Fountainhead Residency. Their dedication to fostering the arts in Miami is truly inspiring. They host open houses for their artists-in-residence, which has provided me with invaluable opportunities to connect with fellow artists, gallerists, and key members of the art world. Beyond their professional contributions, Dan and Kathryn are genuinely wonderful people who care deeply about creating a lasting, impactful art community in Miami. Their support and commitment have played a crucial role in my journey, and I am incredibly thankful for their influence and encouragement.
Website: https://www.taylorcavazosart.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taylorcavazosartwork
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
