Meet Monica Moreno | Interdisciplinary Artist

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

Hi Monica, do you disagree with some advice that is more or less universally accepted?
People often advise against certain paths, and much of this advice is simply fear disguised as practicality. The term “starving artist” is still used today to discourage individuals from pursuing creative careers, deeming them impractical. However, countless artists have found success throughout history, proving that creative endeavors can indeed be rewarding. In more recent times, many more are finding new ways to make their creativity profitable, thanks to all the advancements we have seen in technology.

I think that to fix this misunderstanding many creative individuals need to start rethinking their approach to art. First, by shedding any shame associated with treating their art as a business and by accepting that making money from their creativity just makes sense and is acceptable. They might also consider diversifying their artistic endeavors. For example, a painter can explore various avenues such as painting murals, teaching art classes, offering custom frames for paintings, while pursuing their personal art on the side. Artists are typically multi-talented and can carve out a successful career by thinking outside the box and finding innovative ways to use their skills. We must also accept that a lot of us do need to start with or keep a day job that supports our personal artistic work. Every artist’s path is different. Not all of us want or are meant to live entirely off of our personal work. We need to explore these topics as individuals to find our unique version of success.

But really, we need to stop associating with the “starving artist” cliché and eliminate the shame and sense of “selling out” that comes with making money from our creativity. After all, isn’t that what many of us ultimately aspire to do? It is also a fact that highly creative people cannot live life without creating – it is their essence. Let these people create and avoid them living lives of bitterness and unhappiness.

For anyone who still discourages people from pursuing creative careers, consider who had a role in designing your clothing, appliances, buildings, computers, phones, smartphone apps, cars, product packaging, and many other everyday items you enjoy and take for granted. Creative people. Many of these creators had to take art classes. Scientists, people in business, doctors, and people in other professions also rely on creative thinking. We each possess a certain degree of creativity and artistic talent. The advice to avoid pursuing an artistic path needs to come with more awareness.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Like many artists, I express myself in a multitude of ways, working in various mediums. I have a background in dance and audio production, I also write poetry, occasionally paint and sew, sculpt, design costume and fashion accessories, and create fine and contemporary art jewelry. I handle all my graphic design needs, video, and audio editing for my experimental sound and poetry projects. I go where inspiration leads me, doing what feels right at the moment. There are times when creating a sound project feels more natural to me than working with metal.
Often, I don’t intellectually understand why I create; I follow my impulses. If I must describe my work, I’d say that at the core of it lies an exploration of being human. Time and time again, my work invites viewers on a journey of introspection and empathy. I delve into themes such as faith, religion, emotions, spirituality, and our interconnection to the natural world. The Victorian Era and symbolism also inspire me—how we invent symbols and how everything naturally is a symbol.

Our human parts are symbols. I have been creating artwork in many mediums, including jewelry that showcases some of our most intimate body parts. I took inspiration from ancient Roman and Greek artwork, attempting to bring sophistication, elegance, and appreciation to these “private parts” of ours. It’s interesting to see people’s reactions to them. Some giggle and blush, some are intrigued, and others are offended. These body parts are not inherently sexual, but many of us label them as such. Ultimately, my work is a testament to the beauty within the complexities of human experiences. By confronting emotion and behavior, I aim to foster understanding and solidarity. My work, I think, encourages us to explore our shared humanity amid the nuances of our collective existence.

Many people describe my tangible creations, especially my jewelry, as pieces that belong in museum stores and galleries—a path I intend to pursue. I’m also excited to teach again. I have previously taught dance, arts and crafts, and various other subjects. Now, I’ll be leading workshops as a teaching artist, offering classes in metalsmithing, jewelry making, and other skills I’ve acquired over the past decade. Sharing this craftsmanship knowledge with others is very rewarding.

What I want people to know about my work and brand is that they are very personal and meaningful. Much of my work is one-of-a-kind, with other pieces created in small batches. Every piece is lovingly crafted by me, making each one special. It breaks my heart a little each time a piece leaves my hands to join its new owner.

The journey to where I am now hasn’t been easy. It took time to build confidence in myself and my work. I also had to accept that art is a business for me, and that’s both acceptable and respectable. Driven by my obsession to learn new techniques, I also delved into business topics, taking classes, participating in programs, and spending countless hours researching online. If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone looking to start something on their own, it would be to stay curious and familiarize yourself with every aspect of your business. Learn the ins and outs so you don’t have to rely entirely on others. This way, you’ll also know how to address problems when they arise.

I would also remind others that they are much more capable than they think. There have been countless times when I felt I couldn’t do something, doubting my capability and worth. Yet, I constantly surprise myself. I’m not unique in this; everyone can surprise themselves if they give themselves a chance and take even small risks to start. Everyone is capable of a lot more than they think.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’m a very simple girl. I’m aware that there are many trendy and fancy places to head to in L.A. and that this city has vast and eclectic offerings. But, when friends come to spend time with me, there are a few places we frequent. These include the Hollywood Forever Cemetery for a stroll. We sometimes also take the yoga classes that they offer there during the week and on weekends. We explore the shops and free sidewalk entertainment on Hollywood Boulevard. One of the shops we make sure to go into is Amoeba Music. It is not for the faint of heart, but I like going to the Museum of Death too.

I’m a boba milk tea fanatic. One of my favorite places to go to with friends is Tpumps in Pasadena. I certainly go there for a sweet drink after eating at either Dirt Dog or King Taco, also in Pasadena. My favorite new bakery is Artelice Pâtisserie on the Westside. You have to try their Persian Princess croissant and their milk chocolate earl grey macaron.

There are so many museums in Los Angeles you should visit. Two of my favorites are the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) and the Natural History Museum. Oh, I can’t forget the Museum of Jurassic Technology in Culver City. Everyone needs to visit this place. If you visit at specific times, you can enjoy a nice cup of hot tea and a treat on their outdoor roof level. Lastly, the food court at Mitsuwa Marketplace on Centinela Avenue is great for a casual ramen meal and the Mexican food at Taqueria Chihuahua in Marina Del Rey is my current favorite place for the carne asada fries and chile relleno plate.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A little encouragement goes a long way, and many of us don’t get enough—or any at all. With just a little positive encouragement, we could each achieve so much more. Personally, I wouldn’t be as fulfilled as I am without my community college instructors. They’ve supported me immensely, especially Irene Mori, the Jewelry and Metalsmithing instructor at El Camino College, and April Kawaoka from Pasadena City College, who was the first to go out of her way to help me. These are incredible people who find joy in seeing others explore new talents and succeed.
My partner, Lalo Marquez, believes I can do anything, and my friend John K. Barraclough, a firearms engraver and my engraving teacher, sees more potential in me than I see in myself. I can also always count on Adam Teraoka from Pasadena City College for advice and support. There are so many more people whose kind gestures have helped me a great deal. I’m very fortunate to have crossed paths with these special individuals. I almost don’t believe that they are real. They are probably angels.

For anyone reading this, I encourage you to support others. Whether it’s a friend, family member, student, or stranger looking to explore something new or start a business, be there for them. It doesn’t take much to show encouragement. Like, comment, share, refer, and share resources—big or small. You’d want someone else to do the same for you.

Website: www.Desviado.com, www.Desviado.shop

Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/MonicaTheCreator

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desviado/

Other: https://www.Patreon.com/Desviado