Meet Xochilt Garcia | Artist & Photographer

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

Hi Xochilt, how do you think about risk?
Risk is an aspect of life that is constant. Life as we know it is a risk itself. We take risks on a daily whether we choose to break our diet, continue to drive after the traffic light has turned yellow, or choose to vocalize something controversial. I see it as a method to keep decision-making on its toes. In totality, it is oneself who decides whether to categorize a decision as a risk because, in reality, it is often something that can be calculated. Picture a life where Neil Armstrong rejected the journey to the moon…how would life be now? It is certain to say that without this leap of faith, humanity would not have progressed technologically and scientifically.

Fear is a seed that will indefinitely grow, but the courage to overcome is what blooms and flourishes.

The role that risk-taking has played in my career has been a great one. I could safely say that on the behalf of all creators, risk is a best friend of ours. Being a creative is truly an endangering lifestyle, especially for those who fear instability. I believe that that want and need for stability is what keeps me pushing forward. As of recently, I decided to take a “risk”. Now, I state this lightly because I no longer see it as one. I see it as a need. I no longer feel the need to live for anyone else but myself. I’ve removed the idea of trying to fit in a mold that I possibly couldn’t. Working commercially would bring me stability, yes, but I would have to shrink myself into that world. That is a path that I personally do not see myself turning back to work towards, and since taking that risk, I’ve been showered by grand opportunities. I made this calculated decision but admittedly, it took nothing but pure courage and faith. Knowing is a key aspect of decision making, following your heart and soul wherever it may pull you. With my best foot forward, I can confidently say I know what this will result in.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
The path of a creative will always have its up and downs. It has not been an easy one, and frankly, just like life, it will always have its difficulties. What will make the endpoint worth it all? The journey. Without a journey full of struggle, one can not build character, strength, and courage. I am proud of myself for coming this far without surrendering. I am excited to live in the future I am creating for myself.

My artistic process is for the most part emotionally driven. I find I can create art with more substance when I am feeling a strong emotion whether it is negative or positive. Most of my artistic drive derives from music as well. Listening to music can often unlock a specific emotion that will take me to the need to express it.

I got where I am now with pure hunger for the bigger and better. With perseverance, bravery, and belief through my struggle the outcome is the peak of happiness.
So far, I have learned that though many can claim to support you, it is with their actions that they will truly prove that they do. I’ve also learned patience. Be patient with yourself and recognize the length of your process. Only you know the importance of time and deep thought, no one else will. I’d like the world to know that my art is produced with intense patience, care, and love. I do not create for attention. I understand that there will be those who love and hate my work. I create to express my passion, and if others enjoy what I create, then a part of me is fulfilled. I will always be grateful for those who find my craft great, amazing, or beautiful. And for those who have unlocked a feeling through my work, thank you for seeing past the surface. I hope to continuously mark people’s lives as I continue to live on.

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?
The Antelope Valley is filled with many hidden gems. For those who enjoy the gifts that nature has decorated our world with, I suggest definitely looking around for what this high desert Valley has to offer. The most interesting places I would suggest visiting would be the poppy fields in March. I would also suggest hiking in the Devil’s Punch bowl and visiting the nearby mountains full of snow. Personally, I enjoy drinking boba so my go-to place to grab some would definitely be Mr. Boba or BobaTime. As said before, this valley is filled with countless hidden gems such as beautiful views over the city and of nature. It is often depicted as a terrible place to live. But, in all honesty, anything and any other place has the potential to be noted as terrible. It all really comes down to what you make of it.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to every person who has played a role in my life, fleeting and not…positive and negative. I am thankful for everyone who has left an imprint on me. For those who have left my life, if you are reading this, thank you for all the good and the bad you’ve given me. I could rightfully say that your negatives have taught me many life lessons and I am grateful. For those who have stuck around … to that tiny circle that I keep close to my heart, I am eternally grateful for you. Thank you for all the opportunities, love, and support you have shown me throughout my career and life. I hope to never let you down. I will continue to see that the good and the bad are gifts of wisdom in life. I will continue to live on purely with gratitude in my soul.

Website: http://www.xo-chiltgarciart.com/general-portfolio.html

Instagram: @Theuguudesuuguu

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/xochiltgarc1a

Image Credits
Portrait Photography by Christopher Fuentes