Meet Evelyn Barajas

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

Hi Evelyn, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
Ever since I was a little girl, I had a passion for art and everything creative. As I got older, I indulged in various creative spaces, but continued a career in the tech industry. After many years of feeling unfulfilled, I began drawing the things that inspired me like the people I know, the culture of my family, and the things I value. When I shared my illustrations on social media, it really resonated with many people.

I now realize the art I create can connect, empower, and help represent my community. The impact my art makes keeps me inspired. It pushed me to pursue a serious career as an artist and continue as a children’s book illustrator, a teaching artist, and a creative business owner.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My artwork is inspired by my Mexican heritage, Oaxacan indigenous roots, first-gen experiences, and anything that speaks to the heart. I love creating colorful art that conveys emotion and encourages connection.

Although I did not study art professionally, I continue learning through sources like tutorials, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. Most importantly, I continue practicing and exploring my creativity by looking for ways to grow and challenge limited beliefs professionally and personally.

Sometimes, the uncertainty of a creative career can be overwhelming, especially as a freelance artist. I have learned to shift my mindset and think of it more as the freedom to indulge in different creative opportunities. Because of this approach, I have done numerous successful vending events, public speaking engagements, collaborations with impactful businesses and organizations, community mural work with amazing artists, and even illustrated my first children’s book, Maya Princess of Tortillas. All things I never thought possible.

However, one of my most unexpected and rewarding work has been teaching art to elementary students in the after-school program. It’s so much fun and such an adventure working with little artists. They constantly remind me to expand my imagination, push my creativity, and practice gratitude.

After a few years of working as an artist, I have learned to focus on work that aligns with my values and fills me with joy, which has helped me embrace this unpredictable but very fulfilling art career.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of my favorite places to visit in Los Angeles is the Redondo Beach Pier. Part of it might be because it holds a lot of memories from my childhood, but to this day I love visiting with friends and family because there is so much to do from exploring the pier, grabbing some ice cream, walking the beach and the little park by the beach where you can enjoy the view and host a carne asada with family and friends. As far as restaurants, I have to invite friends to experience Oaxacan traditional food at La Guelaguetza family-owned restaurant. They have some of the most authentic dishes that are difficult to find in other restaurants. Los Angeles is so rich in art and entertainment that I wouldn’t miss out on iconic places like the Getty Museum to explore art exhibitions and the Griffith Observatory for the science and beautiful views of the city.

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?
My good friend Monica Garcia has been a positive influence and inspiration. In my early days as an artist, Monica was encouraging and very supportive of my work. She introduced me to the non-profit Girasoles En Marcha where we did heartfelt volunteer work to empower BIPOC girls. That was an unforgettable journey and an enjoyable time working together.

When a suicide tragedy impacted Monica’s family, she made the difficult decision to change her grad school major from business to the mental health field. She now works as a healing companion and psychotherapist. Monica constantly demonstrates how to embody your ancestral roots, walk in your truth, and pursue your purpose. She is a true inspiration! I’m just happy to call her my friend.

Website: https://evelynbarajas.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evebarajas.arte/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evebarajas.arte

Other: https://www.etsy.com/shop/EveBarajasArte