We recently had the chance to connect with Antonio Rael and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Antonio, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
Well, the first 90 minutes of my day are spent drinking coffee, eating breakfast, stretching and asking myself, “What are can I create today that will make a difference in the world for the better?” As
an artist I am constantly thinking of images that I will create to empower and uplift people.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a Mexican American and Chicano artist and muralist living in Los Angeles. I also have a shop on Etsy that includes my artwork and items that are inclusive, diverse, and empower marginalized groups. As a former children’s art teacher for 20+ years, I find it important to let every child know that they ALL matter regardless of their gender, color or culture. Of course, my images include my beautiful LGBTQIA+ community and my Mexican culture through imagery and colorful artwork.
I was recently awarded a mural for the Department of Cultural Affairs. They mural will be celebrating and honoring five LGBT+ Icons and Activists in the Latino community. I can not share the image yet, but be on the lookout. The proposed area will be Boyle Heights. More to come on that…
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
There are two memories that I clearly remember that made me feel powerful. The first was when I was five and created my first art book in the classroom and my teacher awarded me a first place ribbon. And the second was when I put myself on a diet at age 12 and lost 55 lbs over the summer. I was a heavy child and I was teased. I was too heavy to compete in sports. And the summer before entering 8th grade, I decided to lose weight. When I returned to school, many around me were shocked at the change. I was able to play sports and won most valuable player in Volleyball. It was the first time that I realized that I had control of my body and my life. I often think back to these moments when I doubt myself and my art. As artists, we need to paint and create regardless of our thoughts otherwise we become paralyzed.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There are so many times that I almost gave up. I am constantly self doubting myself. But wallowing in self pity does no good. So I pick myself up, do some empowering meditation, speak kindly to myself and move forward. The most important thing is to be kind to ourselves. No one is going to believe in me more then me.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I think my closest friends would say that my integrity matters more then anything. Friends who have become my family and my actual family who carry the same beliefs as me, matter. Allowing myself to have conversations and be wrong. Listening to friends who are non-judgmental and accepting truths that are hard to accept.
Doing my best with whatever I do matters. Giving my word and following through with promises. Trying not to take things personally matters.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I had 10 years left, I would do exactly what I am doing right now. But I would make sure that my final paperwork and living trust were in order. I might crank up the painting hours and take more vacations, but I enjoy my life right now, so I would do the same.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.uncletonyshouseofart.com
- Instagram: artist antonio rael
- Linkedin: antonio rael
- Facebook: Antonio Rael
- Other: TikTok: california_uncle_tony
Image Credits
VH1’s Rupaul Drag Race Season 13; LEA: Latino Equality Alliance.
