Today we’d like to introduce you to Milena Mortati.
Hi Milena, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
CRE8 made its first debut as an international Pop-Up art gallery February 2020, right before the pandemic threw everyone for a loop. Unsure of what was to come we redirector our focus on an online presence instead, and launched our first virtual art exhibit, showcasing 60 original artworks by 21 international artists, released a second season of our CRE8 Podcast highlighting the creative ways artists were dealing with the new order of the world and by the end of the year, we dared to go back to in-person art shows. We have put on seven art exhibits around Los Angeles thus far and are happy to inform the public that we opened the doors to our first permanent home just this year in the Fashion District, DTLA.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
How do we keep this short… besides the whirlwind of the past two years, being grassroots, self-funded, the onset of a possible recession, prices skyrocketing, and the uncertainties of what’s to come… non the less we are a proud artist colony firmly rooted in our mission, which is shining a spotlight onto creative individuals like never before, allowing people to experience art in different ways, giving newcomers the opportunity to shine in front of an international audience and flooding hope back into our communities by simply doing what we love, building bridges worldwide through art and sharing our heart.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
We are very proud of our newest art baby, an immersive art installation called ENCANTADA. It is a truly a one of a kind 5D experience evoking all senses created by 5 unique artists.
This magical world is a vision of our talented creative director Kalise Wallace. She is an acclaimed Production Designer. We find ourselves extremely fortunate to have her as one of our original CRE8 member, Co-Founder, and creator of ENCANTADA which, under her direction, was brought to life by these artists:
Debi Cable, infamous for her 3D black light artwork. She is acting as burning man regional arts director for LA, co-founder and curator of Pershing Square’s Art Squared Gallery, and former resident of the world-famous DTLA Brewery Art Colony. Debi’s hand-painted fluorescent murals create immersive, architectural environments enhanced by her signature Black-light 3D Glasses, which explode the masterpieces into a visual carnival for your eyes, imagination, and Instagram feed.
Sculptor Inoe Vargas, a native Playa Azul, Mexico where he gained honorable mention graces the space with his otherworldly sculptures. His stunning work is imprinted in every turn you take including his Catrinas, small and large displayed throughout the space. He has worked for Walt Disney as a prop maker and other major Hollywood events such as the Grammys, Emmys, Oscars, and noteworthy stage plays.
Scent artist Daniel Krasofski puts the cherry on top with his magic touch through the art of scent. He created 4 unique smells that give it the full immersive effect. His ten years of work with the Institute for Art and Olfaction – as a supporter educator and as a Board member – has given him the opportunity to share this passion for teaching, scent creation, and a unique perspective on how scent can transport us through time and space.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
CRE8 is built through real team effort and if it wasn’t for the contributions of these astonishing bright lights we wouldn’t be where we are today. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to: CRE8’s CCO Erika Martinez, Curator Diana Barillas, CFO Marlyn Gamez, Print Manager/Connoisseur Nikki Bomagat, Woman of many trades Cara Thomas, who gracefully wears many hats and so generously shares her creative gifts with us
Thomas Wallace and Cynthia Delosreyes for their faith, trust, and full support in our vision
Artist Joel Montano for helping us build our world during the hottest summer in decades
All artists who joined our tribe exhibiting, performing, and sharing their unique talent with us, and not to forget all our friends and family who have been there cheering, supporting, helping, listening, sharing, believing, and continuously loving!
Pricing:
- General Admission $22
- Black Light Paint Nights $65
- Free admission for kids under 5
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cre8.art
- Instagram: @cre8__art
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CRE8.art.org
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPuLPHLplji8IPSoF0yRwJQ
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/5OfRC2rfcqz446gaaG3Dfs?si=dVdJGbkzSAKPn1GX2rYM5A&nd=1
