Once again our Guest Misfit feature is back! This time, we’re showcasing Michelle Izquierdo, half of the duo team curators of Spirit, an ALL FEMALE art show that will be taking place on September 12th in my hometown of Washington, D.C.! As you can imagine, an art showcase filled with nothing but beautiful Queens could not be more of my scene. So of course I needed to pick Michelle’s brain, and show us all why she’s a Misfit. Read on for more info!
So tell us a little bit about yourself (name, age, hometown, etc.).
Hi! My name is Michelle Izquierdo. I’m a 27 year old, born in Bethesda, Maryland.
As you know, the word “artist” can mean many things to different people. What does the word “artist” mean to you, and what are three adjectives you would use to describe yourself?
As you know, the word “artist” can mean many things to different people. What does the word “artist” mean to you, and what are three adjectives you would use to describe yourself?
The word “artist” to me means to create something out of nothing. There was nothing until the artist and gave it life. When I paint, I’m creating. I’m breathing life into an idea or expression that it didn’t exist until I created it. The idea that something I create moves someone is extremely powerful and I’m addicted. To describe myself in three words, I’ll go with passionate, creative and authentic.
Do you have a day job that is not in the arts field? If so, how do you find a balance between your day job and your passion for art?
I do have a day job and sometimes it gets a little difficult. But, I also teach art as well. I found that since I’ve added the cocktails and canvas style classes, it helps keep my creativity on its toes. Finding the balance can be hard sometimes, but I feel like when something is important enough to you, you’ll always find time for it. I’ll sleep when I’m dead.
How would you describe your artistic style? What inspires you?
My artistic style is very bright and filled with texture. I love creating artwork that makes you want to touch it. I’m inspired by natural textures, music and my life experiences.
On our site, we love to cherish and uplift the social ‘misfit’, or the person who uniquely doesn’t fit in. How do you see yourself as a misfit?
I’m uniquely weird. The fact that I’ve owned that character trait since forever makes me a misfit. Being different and being a little odd makes most people uncomfortable and that’s what makes me tick. Operation “own your crazy” has always been my motto.
What was the inspiration for Spirit? How did you go about putting it together? What do you hope to achieve and whom do you hope to reach through the show?
What was the inspiration for Spirit? How did you go about putting it together? What do you hope to achieve and whom do you hope to reach through the show?
Spirit is inspired by us (Vanessa Smith and I). We are always hanging out and creating. One day, we started talking about how each painting we create is a little piece of our spirit. Then it turned into this whole conversation on how cool of an art show title that would be and BOOM! Creating our own art show seemed like the logical next step. We found an event space that we fell in love with and all the other chips just fell into place. By having this art show, we hope to share with people our passion and talent. We just want to provide people with a cool and uplifting experience.
What do you find interesting/intriguing/unique specifically about the DC art scene? How would you describe it?
What do you find interesting/intriguing/unique specifically about the DC art scene? How would you describe it?
I think what’s interesting about the DC art scene is how intertwined it is. When going to different events you tend to see a lot of the same people there. I find that to be really cool because it gives such a feeling of community.
What advice would you give to the misfit out there who wants to pursue their ‘artistry’, whatever it is, but is too afraid because of how others will view them?
What advice would you give to the misfit out there who wants to pursue their ‘artistry’, whatever it is, but is too afraid because of how others will view them?
People are going to have an opinion on what you do in life. It doesn’t matter if you’re doing good or bad, someone will have something to say about it. Give them something to talk about. At least when they judge you, it’ll be over something you’re proud of and stimulates you. Wave your misfit flag high!
Any last minute tips or advice you’d like to give our readers?
Believe in your craft because if you don’t, why should anyone else?
Social media venues we can find you on:
IG: Izquierdo_art
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/
For any media questions, you can contact Tyece Wilkins, Media Assistant, at: Tyece.wilkins@gmail.com
Well folks, there you have it! If you’ll be in the DC area on September 12th, see if you can check out the event. I will definitely be there covering all the delicious Misfit goodness that’s sure to come! Peace and blessings my King and Queen Misfits.
