Today we’d like to introduce you to Michelle Guerrero.
Michelle, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I began painting at a young age, it really helped me cope with a lot. Painting was what helped me deal with the hardships in life and celebrate all the wins. It’s been my friend consistently no matter what. I was originally teaching art and painting on the side but I realized my heart was in my paintings. One day, rather impulsively actually, I decided to leave my job and just start painting full time. At the time, I was seeing a little momentum happening as I had started painting murals. It was a scary moment, but I knew it needed to risk it because we only get one shot. I wanted to shoot mine. Originally, I was driving for Lyft, painting, and doing random side hustles to make ends meet until I realized all my income could come solely from art when I was able to become creative with it. In other words, you don’t have to walk one path, you can walk many, as long as they all ultimately are leading to the same place.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Nothing great comes easy! I realize that this life comes with so many roller coasters of emotions and financially as well.
Some months, you’re biting your nails praying you can make it work, others you’re feeling invincible. It’s all a part of the process. Life has a funny way of making things work out if you want it bad enough.
There comes a lot of rejection, really because everyone has different tastes, and it’s so important to realize it’s a matter of taste, so never beat yourself up over someone else’s opinion. The only truth that matters is your own.
The second mural I ever painted of my character Chucho, was taken really badly. I painted him for a radio shack who offered to fix my cracked screen on my phone for a mural. The neighbor made me stop halfway through because she hated it! She didn’t let me finish.
Luckily, the owner of the radio shack still let me paint Chucho on the other side of the building, so if you ever see two churches in Boyle heights, know that’s the wall! He’s still there unfinished. It’s kinda funny really. I could have been majorly offended and tried to redirect my path but I just kept it pushing, and I trusted that Chucho was gonna get me places regardless, and he really has! Trust your gut.
Please tell us more about your artwork, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.?
I’m an artist, in all senses of the word. It’s funny I used to be so weirded out by referring to myself as an “artist” but I truly feel I am. I think being an artist, a true artist is to create even when you really don’t want to! You never wait for inspiration, you just do because it’s what you know soothes your soul.
I paint murals, paint canvases, create clothing, toy designs, etc. I’m my own marketing, branding, designer. I’m my own agent, constantly finding ways to create opportunities for myself and others!! I’m always following through with my ideas. I don’t like to leave them to always stare back at me on a crumpled piece of paper.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
Honestly, always feel a little corny answering this because the answer is always the same! My mom is 100% epitome of inspirational women. Came from nothing, was betrayed by people she loved, never weakened, always stayed strong, never looked back, and always took steps forward and all along the way remained so kind. She raised my sister and me alone while still being an ambitious career woman. She’s amazing!
My sister, Jean Guerrero is also an amazing journalist. She covers immigration issues and has published her own award-winning memoir. The ladies in my family always have me in awe. How blessed I am to know them and better yet to call them family.
Contact Info:
- Website: Www.mrbbabyart.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Www.instagram.com/mrbbaby
Image Credit:
Personal picture (portrait) by drew @yodrewdustin
Suggest a story: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
