Rising Stars: Meet Mateo Garcia

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mateo Garcia.

Hi Mateo, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory. 
I’m currently a junior studying design at USC, although I come from a fine arts background. I originally got into art when I was reselling sneakers during my math period in high school for some extra money. My focus quickly shifted to learning more about the designers and artists behind the shoe collaborations and brand campaigns. Finding out who inspired them, and so on. At the same time, I was taking an Introduction to Engineering class, and when my art professor, Mr. Font, saw my isometric drawings, he encouraged me to take an art class. I previously had taken photography with him and decided to give it a shot. I fell in love right away and would start frequenting museums and watching countless hours of YouTube to improve. It wasn’t just something I loved doing but something I finally felt I was good at. That young confidence pushed me to craft my art school portfolio in about a year and apply to some of the country’s best art and design schools. I ended up at USC thanks to a huge help from financial aid and a drive to experiment in more than just fine art. Quickly fell in love with the diversity of medium in Design and decided to keep painting as a hobby, something I still frequent to this day. Now, I work mostly in the entertainment space, helping artists with their branding and identity and co-lead the creative team for Expat Society, crafting unforgettable events/parties for students at school. My art has been shown and sold at galleries in New York and, more recently, acquired by private collectors in Malibu. I continue to grow my art and design careers simultaneously, hoping to help brands and artists grow while creating impactful narratives through my pieces. 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Definitely convincing my parents that this was a career worth pursuing. I somewhat had to prove to them that I was good at what I wanted to do. Once they saw my potential and drive, it’s been nothing but constant support from their end. Other than that, I would definitely say financial instability. Though on a full-tuition grant, I still found myself stressing about paying rent and providing for my mother, trying to take out as little loans as possible. It’s something I found myself always stressing until I got an internship brining in some form of steady income. 

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar with what you do, what can you tell them about what you do?
I’d say people know me for my diversity and drive. I’m known to some as a painter, others as a graphic designer, others as an editor and fashion designer. A little cliche, but I do just like to do everything. More importantly, though, I’d say those who know me professionally know that my dedication to fully realizing a project is key. Ideas are just ideas; even as a student, I look to make work that can go out to the real world. Making things people will want and crafting campaigns that will make people need them. As for my art, people often reference my vibrant colors and energetic compositions. I personally think I’m really inspired by making cool ass shapes. As for projects I’m most proud of, it definitely has to be my work with Expat and the development of my own garments and branding around it. Creating events and pieces that bring smiles to people’s faces is something that truly drives me. I’d say what sets me apart stylistically, I usually go under the motto “modernized playfulness”. Making something refined and professional but still with a foundation of fun and energy. 

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I think the role of the editor and curator will grow ever more. I don’t think artists and creatives are going anywhere with the rise of AI, but the role in choosing what and how creativity is seen will be extremely important. Good “taste” will be the most important skill set for any young designer, filmmaker, artist, and more. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mateogarciaart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mateogarcia.art/
• Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/mateo-garcia-309654203

Image Credits
Sam Socorro