We’re looking forward to introducing you to Rich Monteiro. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Rich, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What are you chasing, and what would happen if you stopped?
I believe I am chasing myself in this endless cycle or race? Why? Because I believe we are always trying to discover what’s within, and to receive those answers you have to spend time with yourself. So if I stop chasing myself, and just sit there with him, maybe I would feel complete. Just with the pressure of life and everything around it, who has time to sit, even with yourself?
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Richard Monteiro, I am a human being who loves to express myself through filmmaking, photos, writing and any form of art. It doesn’t matter if I’m good at it or not, I am going to do it. I am originally from Boston, but my people are from these small west african islands called Cabo Verde. Being a first gen, I entered the creative world with a wide range of cultural influence, especially coming from Dorchester, where we have a mix of west indies, Africans, Blacks and hispanic culture to inspire you
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I was this kid that would play with his wrestler for hours, creating story lines for each one, and connecting them all. I would draw in my notebook, draw anything, like houses, would always have a coloring book and crayons when my mom would drop me off at someone’s house for them to babysit me. I always just had this urge to be.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
I’m still learning how to use my pain and convert it into power. I envy artist who are extremely vulnerable in their work. I still have my guard up on certain parts of my life, I try to be private. I just wonder can you be fully private but be a true artist? Cause if I’m not sharing my pain, then what am I sharing? My imagination? But does that source from my pain? I feel like you can trace everything you create back to your pain, so if you are not honest with that, then you are not honest with your work, I guess that is the power?
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
To work hard and you will make it. I’ve seen people make it cause they knew the right person. You just have to be the right person. Doesn’t matter the work you put in, either you are the source or you are orbiting around one.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
Nothing. I hope people are talking about my art since my story will be embedded in it. Show not tell the story.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.richardsart.gallery
- Instagram: beachboyrich
