Today we’d like to introduce you to Bry Cruz.
Bry, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Art has always been a constant presence in my life, but I think it really cemented itself when I was a teenager. I am originally from a small town in Indiana, where art isn’t necessarily praised or thought of as more than a hobby. I remember every year I absolutely had to take some sort of art class in order to keep myself sane. In high school, I had the opportunity to study art in France for one month in the summer. I can’t begin to tell you how much that time in France as a 17-year-old really inspired me to be in the art world. I mean c’mon seeing a Picasso in person leaves a lasting impression on anyone. However, By the time college rolled around, I ended up throwing myself into film and tv production, which allowed me to still be creative but also felt more feasible as a career path. Fast forward to 2016.
At the time, I was going through a lot of changes in my personal life, and I need something to help me manage my stress and anxiety. That’s where painting made its resurgence. My process was to put an album on, listen to it in its entirety, and see what it inspires out onto the canvas. I actually still do that to this day. As I started to build up a portfolio, I decided to start really advocating for my art, and I put on my first art show in DTLA with a couple of local artists. The response gave me the validation to start submitting to art shows and really dive in. As of 2020, I have been a part of 3 art shows in Los Angeles and recently had three pieces picked up by a Canadian based apparel company to create facemasks.
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?
As with anything you desire, there are a few bumps in the road. I think my biggest challenge was my inability to push myself creatively. I struggle with depression, and some days I just don’t have that creative spark. A lot of this stemmed from my mother being diagnosed with stage IV cancer. I had so much to process, so quickly. However, I think I eventually learned how to harness those emotions and put it back into my art. So, I really now appreciate that struggle because it helped me find a voice.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
Artxbry is my little art shop that specializes in original artwork and facemasks. My art style has evolved over the years. I classify myself an abstract artist. I think there is something so limitless about it. So far, I have been really proud of the response towards the facemasks inspired by my art. To see people wearing them, and protecting themselves, makes you feel like you’re doing something good. As an added bonus, your customers are like a walking billboard for your brand.
What were you like growing up?
I grew up in a little town in Indiana. I always felt the need to do my own thing. I was never much of a follower. I remember from a young age that I loved being creative. I used to doodle on anything that could work as my canvas, including my father’s arms. I was the type of kid that was a little more reserved but liked to be around people. I enjoyed participating in sports and other extracurriculars such as art honors society and book club. I liked being able to blend social groups. I think that’s what really helped me mature and be more understanding to other opinions.
Pricing:
- ArtxBry face masks – $18
Contact Info:
- Website: www.artxbry.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @artxbry
- Other: https://www.legaleriste.com/artxbry
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