Today we’d like to introduce you to Iliana Galvez.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Iliana. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I’m a 28 years old queer dyslexic Latinx. Oldest of 8 children. I go by She/Her pronouns. I started Growmija as a love letter to my youngest sister. She was constantly mocked on her skin color so I created a space where she can see herself and others like her represent in art so that she could see how beautiful she is. My message is “Mija You Are Worthy”.
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?
It has not been a smooth road. Unpacking Colorism in yourself and others is never easy. Unlearning those toxic beliefs and identifying it in your loved ones is hard work, but necessary work. Which is why I feel my work is important. I get my share of trolls.
What else should our readers know?
GrowMija is about love for Black/Brown bodies. We are worthy of love, respect, space, and equality. I’m a creative that showcases the beauty in us.
What were you like growing up?
I was scared and felt small. I was being mentally, physically, and sexually abused it made me very timid and withdrawn. I found painting and it slowly gave me confidence. An outlet for all my pain and anger. I withdrew into my own mind and had a very vivid imagination. An imagination that I still use in my work today.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.GrowMija.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: growmija
- Twitter: growmija
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