Meet Nina Ramos-Travlos | Fine Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Nina Ramos-Travlos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nina, how do you think about risk?
In terms of my business and art practice, I think risk is imperative to growth. If you don’t take risks, then you won’t be able to see how far you can go! I’ve always been a risk-taker. Of course that’s a very broad statement as there are many levels of risk. You won’t see me bungee jumping or cashing in my 401k to fund an new idea. But generally, I like to push myself to overcome my fears, and take the risk so that I can evolve and grow.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
My work is a influenced heavily by the colors, energies, and emotions in my life. I paint in a colorful, energetic style. I’m not as concerned with capturing subject matter exactly as you see it, but instead, I focus on capturing feeling and meaning. Painting brings me peace, joy, freedom, and an opportunity to celebrate beauty in the world around us.

I owe my love of composing colorful art to my vibrant Hispanic family and upbringing. Growing up, I was surrounded by art, richly textured serape blankets, handmade jewelry, antiques and painted terracotta pottery from Mexico. I carry those memories with me combining them with the inspiration that surrounds me in my daily life, in my travels and in my own imagination.

I did take a very long break from art after I graduated from high school. I put myself through college and got a 9-5 after graduation never dreaming that I could have a career in art that enabled me to support myself. After 16 years in Corporate America, I took the leap.

It didn’t happen overnight. It was gradual and I spent a lot of time preparing, but there was one experience that served as a catalyst for me taking the risk on myself and my art.

One night, after a particularly horrendous day at work, I booked a solo art retreat to Portland Oregon on a whim.

The universe was looking out for me that night.

I met SO MANY creative, inspiring, entrepreneurial, and ambitious women courageously living life on their own terms. The four days spent painting in that sunny Portland studio changed me forever.

After returning home from the retreat, the following thoughts played over and over again,

“Why couldn’t I build a life where art had a prominent role” and also “If they can do it, then SO CAN I.”

It took me several years from that point to save, prepare and finally take the leap of faith, but I’m so proud to tell you that I DID IT! I believe everything happens for a reason, and so, I’m not sorry that it took me so long to get to this point. My 16 years in the business world imparted many valuable skills that will serve me well on this next chapter!

I officially launched my creative practice in 2018 and life is good!! I have so enjoyed connecting with collectors and other creatives online. I’ve partnered with brands including Alex and Ani, I went viral on Etsy and sold out of all of my original paintings in one day, I have signed several licensing contracts, and my work has been featured in blogs and magazines.

And most importantly, I have been steadily growing my art practice into something I am proud of… which is something I give gratitude for every single day.

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’d like to dedicate this Shoutout to my husband, Mario. He is by far my number one supporter for my art practice, my business and everything in between.

Website: http://www.ninaramosart.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ninaramosart

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

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ninaramosart

Image Credits
Amalie Orange