Today we’d like to introduce you to Cynthia Flores.
Hi Cynthia, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Cynthia Alicia Flores is a Chicana artist from Norwalk California, but currently operates in Orange County. Her work expresses her metaphysical ideologies through the use of oil paint, watercolor, graphite and tattoo body art. Flores’ work is a blend of spirituality and metaphysical ideologies that are introduced into a Chicana environment. Flores wants to launch ethereal awareness as a means of healing toxic norms to the chicana(o) culture. Her work also involves a surrealistic demeanor which focuses on the multi-dimensional universe, and being witnessed by a virtuous observer. Inspiration is drawn from her physical experiences as a chicana woman, and from her experiences with her mind influenced from intense emotions, thoughts, and substances. Her use of strong saturated colors are designed to attract the viewer to immerse themselves in a playful environment, while facing strong and sensitive topics. Flores entertains these concepts through amusing religious, metaphysical, spiritual and scientific content. She paints, draws, and tattoo’s pieces which evoke existential awareness. Flores’s identity as a tattoo artist is influenced throughout her work, as a goal to introduce space for body art in a gallery setting,
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Some of the challenges I have faced as an artist in the beginning of my journey was my financial position, truly investing in my craft over my physical needs. Over time this issue morphed into a genuine investment which furthered my career. Currently my true obstacle would be my imposter syndrome. My psychological experience of feeling unworthy of the title ‘Artist’ plagues my mind everyday, feeling like a fraud despite my experience and accomplishments as an artist. The high pressure environment of a tattoo industry manifests my stress but also is the catalyst for my motivation to pursue my passion everyday. Therefore the challenge I cannot seem to overcome, is the same condition that I believe helps me become a better artist, an infinite loop of serotonin earned through suffering.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My work is featured on my website www.cynnerart.com. I specialize in surrealistic black and grey tattoo work, and psychedelic experience paintings. My greatest accomplishment with forever and always be pursing a career in art. I am eternally grateful for what this life has given me and I am eager to experience this world and what it’s future holds for me, and for those around me.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I think that everyone’s life is so unique, special and catered to their own world that my first hand experience may not be what works best for everyone. However, I would say create as much artwork as you can, and cater to yourself. Feed your own soul when creating work and never any one else’s as an effort to obtain mass approval. A portfolio of your work is the foundation to building a career that will satisfy your soul on a daily basis. Lastly, meet artists that you draw inspiration from and always be open to critiques.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cynnerart.com
- Instagram: cynnerrr
Image Credits
portait of myself tattooing taken by Catrina Esperanza
all other photos are taken by myself Cynthia Flores
