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

Hi Thais, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Since I was young I have always believed that if you do something you love, you never truly “work” a day in your life. I took this very seriously as I entered the workforce with a passion to create. Spending a majority of my adolescence in the foster care system, art has always been a rewarding escape for me. When I find myself in the flow of creating, I find all my worries and stresses dissipate as I turn my sorrows into pieces that even others can appreciate. I am thankful for all the countless ways art has helped me grow.

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.
As an aspiring creative, I knew nothing about mosaics when I first started my career in early 2020. I only knew that I desperately wanted to be a working artist and I was willing to delve into any creative avenue. I quickly discovered a love for mosaics and felt very fortunate to have the opportunity. The day I was hired was a happy day. Since then I have grown tremendously in my career and even expanded my skills into graphic design. Four years later, I am now the lead mosaic artist and graphic designer at my job, and I design the proposals we send to countless schools, businesses, and community centers all around Southern California. I could never have imagined I would be able to accomplish something like this.

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.
As a San Diego resident, I have come to call this place my home. There are far too many places to see and places to go here. But I would have to say I have had friends visit me, and I like them to experience a little bit of everything here. Like a picnic in Balboa Park, or a day at Mission Beach, checking out the seals at La Jolla Cove. Historical Chicano Park. The San Diego Zoo! Getting a latte at Lestat’s in Hillcrest and then walking down the street to get Italian food at Alfredo’s. I love it here.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Of course I have to give a shoutout to my amazing & talented friend Vanessa Machin. As a personal close friend of mine, and someone I deeply respect and look up to. She is a pillar of confidence that permeates into those around her. I can’t say that about many people, I love her dearly.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/x.la_hada.x?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thais-gonzalez-991592227/

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