Meet Celia Prieto: Artist

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

Hi Celia, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
Well… giving up isn’t an option. I grew up in a family that always worked hard for what they had and what they wanted, and I admire that. Taking breaks is ok and sometimes necessary. Especially for someone like me, trying to find balance in my life is key. I’ve learned to set things aside momentarily if I feel like I’m burning out.. and I put focus on the things that I can’t give up on, things that are essential to my life and well being.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Just like a lot of artists out there, I paint from my emotional experiences and interests. I am an empath and feel and soak in the emotions from others around me intensely. I paint and draw things that interest me in relation to life, death, nature- because its all in connection to each other and myself. Standing out or setting myself apart from others isn’t something that I put focus on. I just draw and paint what I want and what I like. I am a product of my own art and I own that with pride. I got to where I am on my own. I’ve had people in my life show me love and support along the way- pushing me to do more and be better. It’s never easy starting out- I remember being so nervous and feeling so intimidated. But you push through that and just do what you do. The point is to show yourself through your work- I’m not always good with communicating with people, but I feel like I’ve been able to speak through my artwork and connect with strangers I’ve met along the way.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d probably take them on a hike or just somewhere out in nature. If this was a week long visit and we weren’t in a pandemic right now, might throw in a concert or dinner of some sort in there. To me, the most exciting places to visit are places where I can find peace and reflect like the redwoods or a good view over the Bay. Places like Lake Chabot, Joaquin Miller Park, Grizzly Peak, Indian Rock, and places to eat like Tsuru Sushi in San Leandro or hit up an Oakland taco truck for some bomb ass Mexican food. I’m not a planner though- I just like adventuring and letting it unfold on the way.

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?
Honestly, the support that I’ve received from anyone that has ever expressed their feelings towards my art, bought something from me, or shouted me out, has been greatly appreciated beyond words or feelings can describe. In particular, I’ve always admired the efforts and mentorship through the years from a good friend and business owner, Selina McManus. If you don’t know who she is, you will eventually. Her drive, success, and her ability to shine light on social justices is so admirable to me. And lastly, my fiancé who has been there for me from the beginning- pushing me to do more, be better, and lift me up through some of my darkest times.. I love him beyond words.

Website: https://ceecat.bigcartel.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceecat.art/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ceecat.art