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

Hi Santiago, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I LOVE RISKS. I’ve always felt that risks are necessary for growth, it’s hard to grow inside comfort. When you take risks, you open yourself up to new experiences, opportunities, and perspectives that wouldn’t be available if you stayed within the confines of what’s familiar. While risks can be daunting, they are integral to pushing boundaries and achieving meaningful progress. SO GO OUT THERE AND TAKE THE RISK, I promise it’ll be alright.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
In the realm of art, it may be counterproductive to prioritize distinguishing oneself from others as a primary objective. Instead, the focus should be on authentically drawing from one’s own experiences and inner truths. It is through this earnest expression that the transformative quality of art emerges. This genuine engagement with one’s own life and identity often becomes the distinguishing factor, imbuing the work with a unique vitality and resonance that naturally sets it apart from others.

Getting started was so exciting, I remember purchasing a Canon AE-1 without a lick of knowledge on how to truly operate it. I began capturing images of people, places, signs, and friends. My affinity for music led me to document local band performances in San Diego, which gradually evolved into a deeper engagement with visual art. In terms of creative challenges, the principal obstacle often lies in the realm of ego. By managing and mitigating this internal barrier, one can cultivate an environment conducive to flourishing creativity and artistic growth.

Through my journey, I have discerned that comparison is a significant detractor from genuine fulfillment. Engaging in a repetitive cycle of comparison can adversely affect the quality and authenticity of one’s work. Consequently, I wish to affirm that my work will consistently embody earnestness and personal integrity, reflecting a commitment to authentic expression rather than external validation.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Must eat spots: For The Win, Met Him At A Bar, Lady Byrd Cafe

Hangout spots: Vista/Beverly Theatre, Barnsdall Art Park, Skylight Books

Los Angeles is a city pulsing with vitality, perpetually alive with a diverse array of activities—from performances and art galleries to police pursuits. The city emanates a distinctive energy, characterized by a complex blend of boldness, determination, and a touch of melancholy. This multifaceted character lends Los Angeles a unique beauty, revealing itself to those who choose to view it through this intricate and nuanced perspective.

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 wish to dedicate this to my father, whose enduring influence continues to guide and inspire me. His unwavering presence remains a beacon of strength and wisdom. To my mother, whose steadfast support and unconditional love serve as the cornerstone of our family; her unwavering commitment and boundless affection are unparalleled and deeply cherished.

Website: https://santiagowarren.format.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/https.santti/ 

Image Credits
Artists Featured Alexsucks Sicksways Dreamer Boy George Clanton

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.