An artist nowadays is a multidiscipline creator, and no wonder with such great skills and passion for the visual arts Ceci Maafs has created an amazing art career in such a short time. We had the chance to chat with her to know what are the true challenges and benefits of choosing this path nowadays.
1.- When did you know that you wanted to be an artist/designer/illustrator?
I always knew I was an artist, but I also thought it wasn’t very profitable. As a young girl I loved to draw, paint and be in touch with my thoughts and feelings, but as I grew older I learned to put it aside as a hobby and to focus on a “serious” career. I did get a more serious, stable and formal job, but I kept on dreaming about making art. In this formal job I got lucky and was able to work with women my age who were artists, and that’s when my dream woke up again. If it was possible for them, it could also be possible for me. Young women out there were making a living from their art and vision, so I bet it all on my dream, I keep on betting every single day.
2.- Did you ever hesitate in being an artist?
Yes, I hesitated for many years, before choosing a major in college, when applying for a job, when people used to ask me for a painting. It was all doubt. Today, I’m thankful for that hesitation, because the moment I embraced myself as an artist, I promised myself I wouldn’t doubt it any more. I didn’t know how, but I was going to be an artist for the rest of my life. No plan in particular, just all the commitment, faith and heart into this dream, my dream.
3.- What is the most gratifying part of your job and the hardest one?
The most gratifying part is being able to collaborate and be of service through what I love to do. I believe great things happen when you put your gifts, talents and heart into service. I’ve been lucky to meet amazing people and projects. Art and illustration business can be so noble, fun and full of possibilities for any one that wants to be in it. The hard part is the value people see in art and design, they love the end product, but aren’t willing to pay the hours an artist has practiced, the experience, the dedication. We are faced with many clients wanting art for free because they see us create it with such ease. I think it’s a cultural thing, and as artists we need to value our work, to be comfortable with our prices, and charging for what we are good at.
4.- What are your goals for the near future?
I think the future is changing and it needs us to do the same. I hope I can keep inspiring people to follow their dreams, to have a relationship with their projects, to be as authentic as they can and follow what really lights them up. I plan to do this by collaborating with local and small businesses, making my art available in more platforms, products and places. Keeping my message alive with the hope of approaching this future and new era, with a generation full of drive and love for what they do, and the magic that brings to the world.
5.- If a young kid is dreaming of becoming an artist what would you recommend them?
They should start, for sure! I encourage everyone that is brave enough to listen to their hearts to trust that direction. Our hearts always know the way, and there is no better way to create something interesting than to follow what interests you. For me, it’s all about starting where you are at, right now, with what you have and know. Keep on learning, exploring and becoming comfortable with sharing your message and developing as many techniques as you want. You don’t need a big gallery, make Instagram your own, you don’t need fancy connections, you don’t need the best tools or expensive classes to make art, celebrate your need to create and express yourself by doing so.
6.- What’s the biggest obstacle for an artist in Mexico?
I think there are more and more opportunities for artists in Mexico everyday, emerging artists are getting more attention, exposure and support. I see more people being interested in investing in local products and artists, but as it happens to the fast fashion industry, I think globally there’s a fast art industry, with pieces that are produced at a large scale, with lower prices and no showcasing the creators name. It’s nice to see people wanting an artist to touch their homes, clothes and lives, which fortunately one day will translate into wanting to know who is behind the brand, the art piece, and wanting to support the artist, our vision and skills.
7.- What are your favorite techniques?
I’m still developing a strong technique. I’ve explored watercolor, ink, acrylic paint and digital media. I love what it’s possible to achieve through digital illustration. Making something that’s meant to be shared and of service in the digital platforms and social media, to be able to carry around a device that lets you create everywhere.
8.- What’s your biggest inspiration when it comes to illustrating?
I believe introspection is the start point for all of my work. I love exploring and reading about psychology, emotions, the power of our mind and getting in touch with my sensibility. I try to reach out to this part of my audience. To be able to produce and translate the human part that lives in everyone of us and to wake up the tender, emotional and sensible part in anyone that’s open to explore that universe.
9.- What do you think has been a key point in your career?
Being a part of Mexicraneos in 2019, which is a major art exhibition of painted monumental skulls to celebrate the Day of the Dead in Paseo de la Reforma, was an amazing experience. I love that they are open to applications from all around the world and for artists of all levels, I think it gives artists a great exposure and the opportunity to talk and interact with the audience in the parade’s celebration.
10.- Where or how did you learn your artistic skills?
I’m still learning. I hope to keep approaching my art as an apprentice. Exploring new techniques, media and tools, with the excitement that comes with a first day of school, full of hope and possibilities. Learning for me has been about getting the material and trying it out! I have never enrolled in an art class, but I majored in Communication, so digital tools were always in hand. Nowadays, I learn from my artist friends, I ask for help and tips and I’m open to receiving advice from people I admire. I have tried online tutorials, and googling all my questions. But if you are into art, be sure to reach out, for the material that’s calling you out or to the artist you most admire. For me the key to learning is not to be afraid to fail. Don’t approach art with fear, keep on creating and sharing what makes your heart beat.
Check out her Instagram and website to see more of her work.
Images: courtesy of the artist.