Today we’d like to introduce you to Mario Lopez.
Hi Mario, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born in El Salvador, a place rich with culture and history but also marked by its own share of hardships. At the age of 13, life took a drastic turn when my family and I moved to the United States. It was a move that brought immense change and challenges into my life. I vividly remember the culture shock I experienced – the unfamiliar surroundings, the language barrier, and the feeling of being in a completely new world where I couldn’t communicate effectively due to not knowing English.
Those initial years were tough. I found myself caught up in various troubles as I navigated my way through this new life. It wasn’t easy adapting to a different environment, and my struggles were compounded by my limited language skills. However, adversity has a way of shaping us, and it eventually led me to a path of growth and self-discovery.
Through sheer determination and a lot of hard work, I managed to overcome the obstacles that stood in my way. One of the turning points in my life was discovering photography. I found a medium to express myself, capturing moments and emotions that words couldn’t convey. Photography became a passion that allowed me to connect with the world around me in a profound way.
In addition to my love for photography, I also delved into the world of podcasts. It was a natural extension of my desire to share stories and connect with people. Over time, I became a podcast producer, working on a total of 15 different podcasts, including my own creation – “The We Are Sacramento Podcast.” This platform allowed me to amplify voices, tell stories, and create a sense of community among listeners.
While my journey has been marked by hard work and achievements, it’s also important to acknowledge the deeper struggles I’ve faced due to the traumas of war in El Salvador. The effects of such experiences don’t just disappear, and I recognized the importance of seeking professional help to address my trauma. Through therapy and self-care, I’ve been able to confront and heal from the wounds of the past, paving the way for a brighter and more hopeful future.
Looking back, I’m proud of the person I’ve become – someone who transformed adversity into strength and who uses his talents to inspire and connect with others. My story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of pursuing one’s passions despite the challenges that life throws our way.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Throughout my journey as an artist and photographer, I’ve encountered some significant hurdles – prejudice, racism, and not being taken seriously in the creative world. These challenges have been especially pronounced because of my background as a minority. But I’ve never let that define me or limit my aspirations.
One of the toughest battles I’ve faced is not being taken seriously as an artist and photographer. The creative world can be very competitive, and being a minority adds an extra layer of complexity to gaining recognition and credibility. There have been instances where my work was dismissed or not given the attention it deserved simply because of preconceived notions about what a “serious” artist or photographer should look like or where they should come from.
I channeled all my frustrations into building my own path and creating opportunities. As an entrepreneur and the proud owner of “The Gallery by We Are Sacramento,” I’ve been able to provide a platform not just for myself but for other talented artists from diverse backgrounds who face similar challenges. This gallery is more than just a physical space – it’s a symbol of breaking down barriers and amplifying voices that deserve to be heard.
Being a minority entrepreneur in the creative world comes with its unique set of obstacles. It’s about proving that my work is just as valuable and meaningful as anyone else’s. It’s about pushing boundaries and showing that creativity has no boundaries. It’s about being a part of a movement that’s reshaping the perception of artists and creators from all walks of life.
So, while the road has been tough, I’m proud of the strides I’ve made. I’m using my journey to inspire others who might be facing similar challenges. The path might be difficult, but I believe that when passion, talent, and resilience come together, they have the power to shatter stereotypes and reshape the creative landscape for the better.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
What truly put me on the map was the “We Are Sacramento” photo essay – a project that has evolved into something bigger than I could have imagined.
The “We Are Sacramento” photo essay began as a simple concept – to capture the essence of our local community, showcasing the diversity, stories, and experiences that make us who we are. I aimed to break down barriers and showcase the human connections that transcend labels. This project was a way for me to challenge preconceived notions and highlight the shared humanity that unites us all.
It resonated deeply with people from all walks of life, creating conversations and sparking a sense of unity within the community. It was a testament to the power of art and storytelling in fostering understanding and empathy.
As the project gained momentum, an unexpected opportunity arose – a collaboration with a local brewery, Oak Park Brewing Co. Together, we turned the “We Are Sacramento” concept into a beer collaboration. This was more than just a drink; it was a symbol of coming together, celebrating diversity, and breaking down the barriers that often divide us. The collaboration was a statement that we’re all connected as humans and that our shared experiences are what truly matter.
Seeing the “We Are Sacramento” project evolve from a photo essay to a collaborative beer venture has been a humbling experience. It’s a reminder that creativity knows no bounds and that when you’re driven by a desire to unite and uplift, incredible things can happen. The journey continues, and I’m excited to see how these efforts will continue to grow and make a positive impact, spreading the message that our shared humanity is what truly defines us. The Community continues to grow; every time we brew a new batch the subjects change, truly becoming one big family. This has been one of my biggest accomplishments, though it happens in private, I can’t help but to get extremely emotional.
What does success mean to you?
This question right here can be a challenging one for me because I’m constantly working, moving pieces to help others with all my projects. In this hustle is where I found my answer. Success to me means being in a position to help my community. Your best work is your community work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wearesacramento916.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearesacramento916/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearesacramento916
