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

Hi Mercedes, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
As an artist, this is a question you may often revisit. I’ve asked myself, “Why have I done this? Why have I chosen this? Is it time to let other areas of my life take priority? Have I wasted time?” So much of being an artist relies on the eyes and ears of outsiders. We lose control of our creative joy. We are dictated by things that might get us employed and turn our art into profit for the necessity of living. These people and things that step in, judge and feed off of the energy of being the gatekeeper to the life we desire, can drain our spirit and purpose. At our lowest points, we will ask, “Do I keep going or give up?” No matter how thick our skin is, we will ponder this to some degree. I’ve come to understand that we all have a gift. It can be in or outside of our art. I have a gift. I have a gift of connecting. I have joy using my gift in and outside of my art. The moments where I get to use that gift through art, excite me and refuel my soul. That’s why I don’t give up. That’s why I can’t. I find this question pops up when I’m measuring success, but what is success? As long as I am giving my gift, and receiving joy from it, I am successful. And there’s no such thing as giving up because I am living it. I don’t need anyone’s permission to be who I already am. What is your gift?

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am an actor. My first professional experience was on a TV commercial, a PSA. I learned a lot about acting in the theater and I learned a lot about the business while pursuing on-camera work. Life as an actor is not easy. My journey has not been easy. I started writing to create more work for myself and others. The writing became important to drive my creativity. I produced my own web series and directed it. Now, I continue to write. I am excited about a short film I have in development, among other projects. I have learned all the ways that I can use my skills as a vehicle. What I want the world to see is reality. I want to see stereotypes, ageism, sexism and discrimination removed from the business of film and television.

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?
Wow. I’ve lived here for almost ten years and I still haven’t seen it all! I enjoy visiting Universal Studios Hollywood. Museums are great and there are so many to visit. The Norton Simon Museum is one I recommend. Window shopping anywhere! Food, Food, Food is always a priority and there are so many places to choose from. It depends on your palette, but I usually prefer locally-owned restaurants that deliver a home-cooked quality (i.e.: El Cochinito). I suggest enjoying live music (maybe at The Greek Theatre) and live theater (maybe at the Garry Marshall Theatre). I’m probably not the best tour guide, because I spend most of my time either working or at home!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are too many people to shout out. So many have been a part of who I am today. Thank you to all who have fought for the rights I have. Thank you to all who have inspired me with their talents, primarily actors and singers. You played a huge part in my childhood and formative years. Thank you to writers and songwriters that create the soundtrack to my life as I listen to your songs and watch your movies and TV shows. Thank you to people who are vulnerable even when it’s tough to be honest and open. You have paved the way for my own vulnerability. Thank you to my mother and my sister who have shown me what love is.

Website: www.MercedesMaria.com
Instagram: @MercedesMariaLA