Today we’d like to introduce you to Acza Marroquin
Hi Acza, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
It all started when I was at a transitioning point in my life, moving from making fast money to wanting to do things right. I prayed and asked God for forgiveness and guidance. I didn’t know where to go or what to do, but I had faith that I would find something. So, I thought to myself, what do I know how to do that I like? I remembered that while working as a valet, I noticed the rich folks had a lot of art in their homes. I thought, “I could do that.” I bet these people pay a lot of money for these paintings. Flash forward to that moment of thinking about things I could do, and I thought about painting and becoming an artist.
I decided to give art a shot. I bought my first canvas and painted whatever I was feeling at the time, you know, emotions. When I saw my first painting, I was like, “Yo, I can paint.” But making money from art wasn’t as quick as I hoped, and with five kids, I couldn’t afford to wait. While researching how to become an artist, I stumbled upon murals and thought they might pay more and be faster. So, I searched on Craigslist.
I found a commission for an Indian restaurant and was very thankful to God for that. I had no experience, but I replied, and they responded. I charged $300 for three murals, which, looking back now, were worth way more. But I was inexperienced and didn’t know what I was doing, so I took the chance. After researching online how to create murals and the different ways people make them, I thought one way was to project it onto the wall. My first problem arose: I didn’t have a projector. So, I went back on Craigslist looking for projectors. I saw a $70 overhead projector, which I considered, but then I found a cheaper one for $25. It was very low quality, but it would have to do. It was all the way in Montclair, so I thought I’d pick it up right before starting the project. It was a whole adventure. I remember the job took three days. So what is that, like $100 a day? Plus, I spent $20 on the projector and $20 on gas each day. I didn’t make much profit, but I got paid for the experience, so I didn’t feel like I lost. From there, I got another mural job, and things started to pick up.
Over six years, I learned the craft and got bigger projects, charging more each time. My faith, wisdom, and knowledge that comes from above guided me through, and I started to see real success. Now I’m able to invest in my next endeavor: creating a unique hamburger spot, which will eventually be a restaurant. After that success, I’d like to have my own clothing line because I’m very picky with clothes. It’s really hard to find things that are my style, so I just wear sweats and a T-shirt until then. After that, I’d like to make some music, just to say I made music in my lifetime. But more than anything, with this lifetime God has blessed me with, I want to help people and create opportunities for the less fortunate. I want to fulfill my purpose in life, and that’s to be of service.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I mean it’s been an up and down rollercoaster because sometimes, I’ll make dumb choices and then I have to go through the consequences. Which, takes you 10 steps back. but through it all I stay humble and praying,crying out for wisdom. Getting back up. Accepting it and learning from it and not ever wanting to make the same mistake again. One thing is, I never give up I’ll get up a thousand times if I have to. I’ll keep learning and getting back up until my last breath. I will reach and fulfill what I’m put here to do. No matter how long it takes.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Well, I’m a muralist, and I love transforming spaces with vibrant, high-quality murals. I specialize in lettering and intricate designs, using multiple coats of paint to make each mural pop and look truly high-end.
I’m known for my attention to detail and my dedication and kindness to my clients. Im always ensuring all my clients’ needs are met, going above and beyond to make them happy. I often help with tasks that aren’t even related to murals because I believe in making the entire experience as smooth and pleasant as possible.
One of my proudest accomplishments is completing 30 murals for 1 school in record time. It was a challenging but incredibly rewarding experience. What sets me apart is that I always put people first. Whether it’s in my business or in life, I believe that if everyone adopted this mindset, the world would be a much more considerate and kinder place.
I’m passionate about my work and strive to make a positive impact through my art and interactions. My goal is to bring a little more color and kindness into the world, one mural at a time.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Just the Bible that’s all I need
Contact Info:
- Website: https://aczartmurals.co/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aczartmurals/
