An Inspired Chat with Gabriela Vega of Riverside, CA

Gabriela Vega shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Gabriela, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Have any recent moments made you laugh or feel proud?
One of the most meaningful moments that made me both laugh and feel incredibly proud happened during my student-teaching experience. While continuing my work as an illustrator, I made the decision to go back to school to earn my master’s degree and teaching credentials, which is something that felt both exciting and intimidating at the same time.

There were so many small, unexpected moments in the classroom that stuck with me. Students would joke with me or light up when they realized they could express themselves creatively in their own way. Watching them gain confidence in their work, take risks, and genuinely enjoy the process reminded me why I chose this path.

Balancing illustration with teaching wasn’t always easy, but those moments of seeing students proud of their work and knowing I played a part in that made everything worth it. It confirmed for me that creativity isn’t just something I practice, it’s something I love sharing with others.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! I’m Gabriela Vega, an illustrator and educator who creates vibrant, expressive artwork rooted in storytelling, culture, and connection. I’m especially proud to have worked on bilingual children’s books, as I’m a Latina artist and representation has always been deeply important to me. Creating work that reflects language, identity, and lived experiences similar to my own is something I hold close to my heart.

Alongside my illustration career, I made the decision to return to school to earn my master’s degree and teaching credentials, which has shaped how I approach creativity and community. My student-teaching experience reinforced how powerful art can be in building confidence and encouraging self-expression.

Currently, I’m focused on updating my portfolio and committing to sketching and painting every day to continue honing my skills. I’m always experimenting with color, composition, and storytelling, pushing myself creatively while staying true to my voice.

At the core of everything I do is a belief that creativity is meant to be shared, whether through illustration or education, my goal is to create work that feels meaningful, inclusive, and inspiring.

Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that has most shaped how I see myself is the one I have with my parents. They are both immigrants who worked incredibly hard to build a life and create opportunities they never had. Watching their resilience, work ethic, and sacrifices shaped my understanding of perseverance from a very young age.

They always supported my goals and believed in my creative path, even when it wasn’t the most traditional or predictable career choice. Knowing I had their encouragement gave me the confidence to pursue illustration and continue growing both personally and professionally.

Their support taught me to value hard work, gratitude, and staying true to who I am. Everything I’ve accomplished feels deeply connected to the foundation they built and the belief they’ve always had in me.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self to trust herself more and not rush the process. I’d remind her that it’s okay to take the long way, to change directions, and to grow at her own pace. Every experience, especially the uncertain ones is shaping her into someone stronger, more grounded, and more confident than she realizes.

I’d also tell her that her creativity is enough, that her voice matters, and that staying true to who she is will always lead her exactly where she’s meant to be.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a cultural value you protect at all costs?
A cultural value I protect at all costs is family and community. The idea that we succeed together, not alone. Growing up in a Latino household, I learned the importance of showing up for one another, honoring where you come from, and leading with humility and respect.

That value influences everything I do, from the stories I choose to illustrate to how I show up as an educator and collaborator. I believe in uplifting others, creating space for different voices, and using creativity as a way to connect, support, and give back. No matter where life or my career takes me, staying rooted in community and gratitude is something I will always hold close.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I would stop second-guessing myself and waiting for the “perfect” time to take risks. I’d let go of overthinking, comparison, and the pressure to have everything figured out, and instead focus on what truly matters such as creating, connecting, and being present.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://gabrielavegaart.com/
• Instagram: @gabyyvega_