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

Hi Blu, what’s your definition for success?
Success, in my opinion, is subjective. My definition of success shifts, as it is heavily reliant on my day to day. For instance, showing up in a space authentically, as a Transgender, Boriqua man, I shed light on my community and directly influence the perspectives of other individuals. If I show up somewhere, regardless of the location, and I willingly pose an uplifting attitude, with a respectful demeanor, I consider myself to be successful. My goal in this life, is to inspire unification through creation and representation.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I consider myself an Intuitive Visual/Auditory Artist. My styles right now vary, with respect to avant-garde, macabre, graffiti and subtle influences from my Boriqua culture- which tie into my indigenous roots. I use multiple mediums to translate my imagination, whether it be through charcoal, water-color, carbon ink, etc.

I am most proud of my resilience and dedication to my crafts. Regardless of what setbacks may swing my way, I constantly find myself returning to my practice. It almost seems like a microcosm for general Life. We all can attest to seeing the Sun and Moon rise and fall, every single day. Or, perhaps, when tree roots bulge out of concrete sidewalks. When I consistently show up for myself, I consider myself in harmony with Nature. It is not easy, but there is a phrase in French that goes, “aprés la pluie, le beau temps,” which directly translates to, “after the rain, the fine weather.” When faced with difficult setbacks, I take a walk into nature. or I may simply focus on my breathing.

Lessons are learned merely through observation. Waves crashing, ants crawling, or leaves falling. Nothing is permanent, yet we must keep on. If the world stopped turning, earth would more than likely be inhabitable.

What I’d like the world to know about me, or my story, is that I feel we must honor what has come before us, and prepare for what is ahead of us. We all face the same things, in different ways; my work is a mere representation of humanity: ever-changing. My story is beyond me, and therefore I must share it. And I must return to it until I cannot any longer, for there is impermanence in all things. My work allows me to take up space, despite living for just a blimp in time. It allows me to explore the mundane. It keeps me safe, and it keeps me whole. And most importantly, it constantly challenges me to improve.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Alright, say my friend from Chicago wanted to come visit NYC, and we are seeking a fruitful day filled with all types of flavors, that wouldn’t hurt our pockets. Firstly, let’s assume it’s the Summer. Where would we start? There’s practically an endless amount of options! Despite that, I’d start our day with where I’ve grown up most of my life, Pelham Bay Park. After a quiet nature-filled walk, easily, I’d have to show them St.Marks. And we’d definitely have to stop for a bite at Kenka. Afterwards, we’d make our way down, on the L train, to the Bushwick Flea Market. When finished exploring the market, I’d show them ErfWorld Studios, where I got the opportunity to paint a custom portrait in the space, which’s also filled by other talented creatives. By then, we’d stop for dinner at Mao Mao for some Thai food, accompanied by a vintage inspired cinematic ambiance. Lastly, ending our night with a Coney Island’s Friday firework show along the boardwalk. That would easily make the best time ever.

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?
I would like to dedicate my Shoutout to, first and foremost, my mother. She has been a rock in my life and has raised me to be the young man I am today. She has always seen me for myself, without judgement or resentment, allowing me to freely explore my Queer identity. I would also like to Shoutout all the friends I’ve made alongside this journey for constantly inspiring me to pursue my creative endeavors, as well as provide me various resources/networking opportunities. I definitely would not be where I am without the influences my peers and family have on me. And last but not least, a huge Shoutout to anyone who has looked down or denied me, whether it be for just my style or who I am, because they give me the inspiration to keep pursuing my goals.

Website: junkishjuice@gmail.com

Instagram: junksjuice

Other: TikTok: junksjuice
Threads: junksjuice

Image Credits
Jaden Rich, Bre De Jesus, Julie Flores, Ciania Mejia

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