Today we’d like to introduce you to Celia Prieto.
Celia, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was born and raised in the Bay Area. I’ve always been an artist, just never identified or felt comfortable enough to say it. I’ve always drawn as a kid but I really didn’t see my potential as an artist until High School. I was lucky enough to have an amazing teacher and motivator. On top of assignments she would always send me home with books on different artists, watercolors and paper, and after graduation would allow me to come by her classroom and create whatever I wanted. It is because of her that I found a huge part of who I am now. I had a few art shows here and there but still wasn’t as confident or serious about what I was doing. In 2017, I gave birth to my son and reevaluated my place in the world- not just as a mother but as an individual. In 2018, I plunged back in- live painting & vending in the Bay. Whenever a door opened for me, I was there. Painting in venues, backyards, small halls, galleries… it doesn’t matter where I’m painting as long as I’m pushing forward and doing what I love.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The struggles I face don’t ever go unnoticed. I have a tough past. And although that time in my life has helped me grow immensely into the artist I am today, it is a different chapter of my life. Nonetheless, I never forget where I’ve been. Right now, I face working full-time, being a mother to a three years old, all while making time to paint, draw, deliver packages, make prints, update my shop, as well as making time to promote myself. It’s tough but there is nothing like watching all the work you put in, pay off. Some advice to young women- invest in yourself!
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I am an artist – I paint and I draw. I guess I’d say that I’m known for my cat skull & mushroom illustrations, but I primarily try to focus on detail in my work- specifically dots. I steer towards combining both a beautiful and delicate essence with dark and sometimes creepy ideas. Topics of choice are spirals, dots, circles, hands, eyes, skulls, mushrooms, nature, paranormal, the occult, and cats. I’d say I’m most proud of what I do because I’ve created this all by myself. Yes, I’ve had the amazing support of my friends, family, fellow artists, and strangers, but I am a product of my hard work and dedication- I hold onto that with pride. My originality is true to the bone.
It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
Music! I will almost always have my Spotify on or a record playing while I work.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
Although women around the world have always been suppressed, I think turning that into an opportunity to express ourselves through out work can not only ignite power within us, but inspire women around us as well. Women are not particularly designed for a one type position. By nature, we are life givers- creators and made of pure magic. I can’t speak for all women but as an artist and as a mother, it is important that I am always true to who I am and that I carry that through my work. I am here and I am making my creative mark in a society that wants to suppress me.
Contact Info:
- Website: ceecat.bigcartel.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceecat.art/
Image Credit:
Nai Saephan
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