We had the good fortune of connecting with René Villa and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi René, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I embarked on an artistic career as a model, singer-songwriter, and actor, driven by a profound desire to merge the vibrant cultural tapestries of Costa Rica and Ireland. As a resident of both lands, my creative pursuits draw from the diverse landscapes, traditions, and stories that shape these unique backgrounds. Modeling allows me to celebrate visual diversity, songwriting lets me narrate tales influenced by both homelands, and acting enables me to embody characters sculpted by rich cultural narratives. Residing in Costa Rica and Ireland, I aim to weave a harmonious blend of these influences into my art, creating a universal yet distinctly personal expression.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art is a unique tapestry woven from the threads of my diverse cultural background and life experiences. What sets me apart is the fusion of Costa Rican and Irish influences in my work as a model, singer-songwriter, and actor. I take pride in celebrating visual diversity, narrating stories inspired by both homelands, and embodying characters shaped by rich cultural narratives. The journey to my current professional standing wasn’t easy; it demanded resilience in overcoming challenges. I’ve learned the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and staying true to my artistic vision. My brand is a reflection of the harmonious blend of two worlds, a universal yet distinctly personal expression.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For an unforgettable week in Los Angeles, I’d start with brunch at Sqirl, a hip spot in Silver Lake. Days would be filled exploring the Getty Center’s art and architecture, followed by sunset at Griffith Observatory. Dinners at Bestia in the Arts District and Nobu in Malibu for a mix of culinary delights. We’d catch a live show at the Troubadour or Hollywood Bowl and unwind at The Edison for unique cocktails. A beach day in Santa Monica and a hike in Runyon Canyon would balance the urban experience. The Last Bookstore in DTLA and the vibrant Venice Boardwalk would round out the eclectic adventure.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

I, like many Latinos, was raised in a close-knit family surrounded by siblings and cousins. Family, our solid foundation, means everything to us. The guiding force in our clan was my abuelita, a strong, proud, and fun-loving woman with a heart of gold. She held us together through thick and thin, offering unrivaled advice and an infectious energy for life. In 2020, she embarked on life’s next adventure, leaving a significant void. Despite the pain, we strive to honor her memory and make her proud. I owe who I am today to her love, mentorship, and unwavering support, forever grateful for her influence. Gracias Tacher!

Instagram: https://instagram.com/renevilla

Facebook: https://facebook.com/ReneVillaMusic

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ReneVilla

Other: https://tiktok.com/@renexvilla

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.