Meet Bryant Castro: Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bryant Castro and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Bryant, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
For me , it was the freedom to have full control in the creative direction. I always had a problem with people controlling or directing something for me. I enjoy the freedom to create what I want and feel at any given moment. Along with that same freedom I also enjoy the reactions of others when I create an artwork or a custom sneaker that they brought the idea to my table and then when I create that idea and bring it to life. I love that part the most honestly. My love for art and fashion has given my the opportunity to make income and charge at my own expense, and that part to me is also a type of freedom.
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.
My art is based on limited quantities. Primarily customs. When I create custom sneakers for clients I aim for that 1 of 1 piece that no one else will have, and that is my power. I’m most excited about the idea of having people including celebrities/influencers wearing a custom piece/artwork I’ve done. Where I am today in the artworld it hasent been east I would say. There is days that you don’t know when you will make money or to be even more transparent, there is days I won’t even have enough to pay rent until a commission/ project comes in. Because I don’t produce mass artwork of the same design I can’t stop creating and expect sales , I actually have to continue producing new artwork and promote my self as much as I can to reach clients. If it wasn’t for social media and the opportunity I had reached there I would be where I am today. Promoting and marketing myself daily on Instagram has made my name get out there. I’ve learned that you should never feel insecurities or over judge yourself in the process of getting your name out there. I’ve learned over the years that consistency and always creating new work was what kept me relevant. I would want the world to know that I never gaved up and that I’m constantly evolving and learning and that the journey is where all the magic happens , not the end product.
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.
Here in La, I would take them to this place called The Grove. The Grove is an outside mall and to me it feels also like a fashion shoe runway. You see many people dressed in the trendy clothing, shopping , just walking around and enjoying the scenery and the beautiful LA weather. Also I would take them to Melrose art district. There you would find many murals , sneaker boutiques, clothing boutiques and vintage stores. All of which are things that I personally enjoy and get I inspiration from.
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?
Since the beginning of my career, my girlfriend has been a great supporter even when I would create and go out to art shows and events and come back home empty handed and no sale was closed. Being in a relationship with a person who believes in your vision is also a major component to anyone’s success. I’m also a big reader , my highest inspiration and mentor is Robert Greene. Robert Greene’s books has shaped most of my dedication and discipline in my craft. His book are game changer and for me it definitely helped as a guide in this industry I’m in.
Instagram: Castro_picasso
Linkedin: Castro Picasso
Twitter: @BryantCastro415
Facebook: Bryant Castro (Castro Picasso)
Youtube: Castro Picasso
Image Credits
Bryant Castro