Today we’d like to introduce you to Marisol Diaz.
Marisol, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I was lucky enough to grow up being encouraged to pursue my creative interests. Because of this, I realized I had a passion for writing and filmmaking at a fairly young age. I ended up attending Chapman University, where I studied film and business and created many short films that I am still proud of.
Since graduating two years ago, I have worked in various areas of the film industry and recently landed a dream job working in television.
As many artists know, it can be difficult to balance time for own your art with your “9-5” job. I have learned that it is possible but that you must be motivated and want to create art above anything else.
This past summer, I co-directed ten episodes of a web series I created with my creative partner which only strengthened my resolve to pursue this dream and reaffirmed that there is nothing more that I want than to be a storyteller and filmmaker.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
While in college, it became clear to me that there was a lack of diversity in the film industry, on and off the screen. As a woman and a Latina, I became inspired by my own story and the many others I encountered who are first generation in this country, like myself.
My goal as a filmmaker is not only to empower women but to also tell stories that are diverse, inclusive and relatable. I hope audiences can watch what I create and feel inspired when they see themselves in the story and in the characters. I also hope to help pave the way for future Latina filmmakers.
After graduating from Chapman, I spent nearly two years working with my writing partner, Hadley Dion, to create and write the web series, “I Would Have Kissed You” which is about young women exploring their identity, relationships, and sexuality. It focuses on the female friendships that help young women navigate an uncertain time of their lives – comfort food that will speak to young women but can be enjoyed by all!
This past July, we had the opportunity to direct all ten episodes of the series, and we put together an almost all female key crew to work alongside us. It was an incredible experience to work with so many talented and creative women.
How can artists connect with other artists?
Yes! It can help tremendously to have a support group behind you and your art.
Never be afraid to reach out to others. Look into events happening near you that involve other local artists and reach out to them. Connect over Facebook, LinkedIn, attend mixers. One of the best decisions I have made was joining a writing group to motivate me and help me through the process. Another way is to attend panels and Q&A’s where you can connect with others.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
You can learn more about my web series, ‘I Would Have Kissed You’ at www.kissedyouwebseries.com
Crowdfunding Website: www.seedandspark.com/fund/i-would-have-kissed-you
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kissedyouwebseries.com
- Email: iwouldhavekissedyou@gmail.com
- Instagram: @kissedyouwebseries
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/kissedyouwebseries/
- Twitter: @kissedwebseries
Image Credit:
Ethan Talby (Photography)
Nadia Hayford (Artwork)
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.
