Meet Maria Ramirez-Meyers

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maria Ramirez-Meyers and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maria, why did you pursue a creative career?
While both my parents are in the medical profession, they were huge film fanatics. They showed me “Laura” (Otto Preminger, 1942), when I was 12 years old. I would wake up in the middle of night, and watch old films on TCM with my dad, and my mom was an avid art lover. I was always encouraged to love cinema, and as I got older I think that adoration became this desire to make film and art.

Of course, I had to take jobs in between film work; which helped my appreciate for other forms of art grow. I worked at a gallery where I learned about different artist expressions, such as folk art, jewelry, textiles, etc. It gave me a deeper appreciation for art, not just on the silver screen, but in our every day life. I learned to love art in forms of silver, wool, and wood; as well as in film.

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.
When I was first living in LA, after college, I was really struggling to find any work I was passionate about. I ended up working odd jobs, volunteering, and living with my folks for over a year; trying to figure out my “next steps.” Finally, after enough frustration, I decided I needed a “reset.” I move to Santa Fe, New Mexico where I decided to volunteer at the local film office. It was here that the coordinator of the office sent my resume to a film production company, and I earned my first ever film job on the Coen Brother’s film “The Ballad of Buster Scruggs” as a Storyboard PA. Here, I met my mentor, JTodd Anderson, who has helped guide me through the industry the last several years (and we’ve gotten to work together a few more times)!

In addition to this, I found work at a local gallery that specialized in Global imports. Through this role, I learned about art not just in a museum or on a screen, but that you could wear, that you could put in your house. Folk art became a staple of love for me as I navigated my film career. These experiences taught me that not all paths need to be “traditional.” In fact, taking an alternate route can lead you to opportunities you never imagined.

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 would start a trip in DTLA and show them some of the beautiful historic buildings that grace the area; the DTLA Public Library easily being one of my favorites. The beautiful Dean Cornwell murals, and the painted cathedral ceilings are true marvels. They encapsulate the early art work and vision of this city.

After, I would take them to Echo Park. While the history of the park is deeply complicated, I think the public space it provides is brimming with life (from both people and animals). Where else can you see a magnificent Blue Heron so easily?! After a walk around the park, we’d go to Bar Flores and grab a drink (if you sit by the long window, you have an amazing view of Griffith park and the Observatory).

And speaking of Griffith Park… I would take them on a hike on the Bird Sanctuary Loop. It’s definitely a steep walk up, but once you’re there, you have a complete view of all of LA. It’s a great experience.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve felt so lucky to have so many great mentors and encouraging people in my life. But someone who stands out, and the person who has seen me through some of the most difficult parts of life has been my close friend, MK. We met on our first day of film school orientation, and within a week we were good friends. She’s been there for me through everything.

It’s easy to find folks who want to be with you when you’re fun, loud, and exuberant. But to find a friend who will stick with you through the bad, the difficult, and just sit still with you while you grieve is a real gift. MK continues to give me that gift as my best friend.

Website: https://mariaramirezmeyers.com

Instagram: @la.vibrant.vintage