Rising Stars: Meet Roxana Martinez of Santa Ana

Today we’d like to introduce you to Roxana Martinez.

Hi Roxana, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
It all started at home, learning how to sew and make piñatas from my grandmother, knitting & embroidery from cousins, and masonry work from my Dad. The ability to move my hands to create something new grew out of my vibrant Mexican family and the creativity that surrounded me at an early age. Practically thinking about a career, in college I wanted to become an architect where I could still be creative and earn a stable living. Yet, I couldn’t imagine being fulfilled with the idea of sitting at a desk for long periods of time. My body feels more alive when it’s building, shaping and creating with my hands. I followed through with a passionate Art education receiving my MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in 2015. Afterwards, I worked as a Display Artist for Anthropologie for 4 years before transitioning to the world of luxury events in 2019.

In 2025, I began my entrepreneurial journey by founding Muse.o. Muse.o is a culmination and collage of my past experiences and creative practices, built on the fundamental idea to unite Art and events. Through sculptural storytelling guided by multiple muses, my clients, I create art that lives within celebration.

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?
I’ve been very blessed and fortunate to have met companies and mentors who believed in me and gave me the opportunity to grow. I knew pursuing an art career would be a lot of work filled with financial uncertainty. Still, I stayed focused and kept art at the center of everything I did. I literally typed “art job” on the Indeed website search bar after graduating from SAIC in 2015. Anthropologie Display Artist was the first job listing that showed up.

I would be lying if I said the journey was easy. You definitely earn your badges, especially in the event industry. On event days, adrenaline and cortisol run high. Yet, the moments after an event set up it’s always a celebratory moment with the team. Seeing an idea finally realized and watching people experience the work makes every challenge worth it.

Ultimately, one of my biggest goals is to help create more opportunities for emerging artists because I know how it feels like to search for work that allows you to stretch your creative muscle.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in art installations and creative backdrops for events, with a strong focus on craftsmanship, detail, and the handmade. In a world of immediate gratification, I’m drawn to taking the long path in the creative process. I honor techniques that require patience, attention, and care.

I’m most proud of starting my own company Muse.o. Muse.o exists to bring art into spaces where people gather, not only art galleries or museums, but celebrations, events, and shared experiences.

What sets me apart is the foundation of my company itself. The belief that art belongs within events and everyday human connection. Muse.o focuses on bringing art techniques into events through a revival of craft, artisanal craftsmanship, and classical modes of art making.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Slow down and always do a proper job. Working in events, speed and quick turnarounds are often expected, but I aim to break that norm. I believe thoughtful craftsmanship takes time, care, and intention.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://studiomuseoart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roxythecreative/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/roxana.martinez.54772
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roxana-martinez-b61b0574/
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/studiomuse.o/

Image Credits
Karen Mata Photography & Jackie Culmer