Today we’d like to introduce you to Manuela Lendoyro.
Manuela, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I was born in southern Spain, in the city of Malaga; the birthplace of Picasso. While I have never had any formal education in art, I have been drawing ever since I can remember. I always felt the need of creating something. My school did not offer any art courses, and when I searched around for ones that did, I was constantly discouraged to pursue an artistic career. They all said that there was no future in what I wanted.
So, it became quite an internal battle that I had, as a teenager, in deciding what to do with my life. It wasn’t until 2013, when a friend’s mother motivated and inspired me to do what I really wanted, that I chose to truly immerse myself in art; she played a huge role in my life.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I have always had a fascination with the human form, so my primary focus is on figurative art. Although not always an easy thing to do, I try my best to capture the vulnerability of the individual. I believe that there has to be a connection between the artist and the subject, in order to create a level of intimacy where raw emotion may be found. That is why I have started by painting those around me.
I try not to overthink the meaning of my art, which I can never truly explain; it is just the result of my necessity to pick up a pencil or a brush and make something that leaves me with a sentiment or feeling.
In your view, what is the biggest issue artists have to deal with?
I believe being an artist can be lonely because ultimately it is only you and the painting. Many times I felt frustrated and discouraged and I left it behind. Committing to become an artist is not easy, and there is also the financial aspect to it. Putting your art out is expensive (supplies, equipment, promotional materials,…) and the emotional: sometimes you get the feeling that you are wasting your time with something useless. And, everything you do is by yourself, because you don’t have a boss that guides you or even coworkers. But at the end, you know that this is what fulfills you and lets you be who you are. You just want to keep doing it because it is your passion.
I feel fortunate in having all the support and feedback that I have found on social media. It’s something that encourages me to keep working hard and evolving as an artist. Social media has pros and cons but has changed the artistic landscape. It’s much easier to reach out to each other and build a solid art community. There are also so many incredible artists to discover. I’m so grateful that I have found awesome people out there and connected with them.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
You can find most of my work on my website: www.manuelalendoyro.com and social media, which is more up to date; mainly Instagram: manuela_lendoyro.
I believe that any artist needs a strong support system, in order to become successful. Of course, the main way to support an artist is by purchasing a piece. But, there are also many other ways to do so. For example, giving their work exposure by sharing with others, giving moral support, connecting the artist with other people interested in art…etc.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.manuelalendoyro.com
- Email: mn.lendoyro@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/manuela_lendoyro/?hl=es
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/ManuelaLendoyroArt/?locale2=es_LA
Image Credit:
The one where I’m painting on the orange chair is from Greg Badger
Getting in touch: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
