Meet Arcelia Gandarilla | Cleveland Creative

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

Hi Arcelia, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Creativity has always been like another language to me. What I can’t express in words I can express via what I create or make.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As a creative I am always trying to learn something new. I might not always have the time to make tangible art, but I love the time that I can dedicate in between making new art to just learning about art around the world, art history and how art is used in different cultures. This has really challenged me to this about what being an artist means and what that looks like. Just because I am not always posting about what I create doesn’t not mean I am not an artist. Just because others don’t see what I make all the time does not mean that I am not an artist. Sometimes being an artist can be view from a very capitalistic perspective. It’s just about making art!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love Cleveland and feel that its is still such an underdog city! On Monday we would visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and spend the day exploring the city, taking pictures down town and eating on E4th street. Tuesday we would celebrate Taco Tuesday at Si Senor. Wednesday we would stop by the free Cleveland Museum of Art and enjoy some delicious food at L’Albatros. Thursday is a great day to see a show at Cleveland’s Playhouse Square. Friday Would be a visit to Porco’s for drinks and pizza at Edison’s. Saturday would be for delicious ice cream at Mason’s. Sunday would be spent enjoying some delicious bubble tea from Koko’s bakery, at Edgewater Park.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have the privilege and honor of being able to say that I receive so much support from people around me. I want to shout out my entire community. From the individuals I work with, to my friends, family and professors. Things feels so much more attainable when you know that your community has your back. And for that I am forever grateful.

Instagram: artedecelie