Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Ruiz.
Michael, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
Unlike many artists, I can’t exactly pinpoint the moment I decided to become an artist. I do remember being fascinated by looking through the viewfinders of my parents kodak Instamatic film cameras growing up. Looking through the viewfinder always seemed to make what I was looking at somehow more important. That fascination with discovering new meaning in my daily surroundings continues today, whether it’s in my photography, sculpture or paintings. It all starts by simply slowing down enough to experience what’s right in front of me.
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?
I like making connections in my work. That moment of familiarity that we experience when we see or experience something new, yet are drawn in because somehow it feels familiar. My art practice tries to delve into discovering new meaning in our daily surroundings, and unearthing memories and experiences from everyday objects and materials.
Have things improved for artists? What should cities do to empower artists?
It’s a challenge to be an artist, however like any large city its tuff for everyone to earn enough scratch to make ends meet. Cities, non-profits, and foundations can continue to develop programs for new and mid-career artists in all mediums (music, dance, etc.) to apply for specific projects or collaborations. Currently, many of the grant programs require support from a larger organization rather than as an individual. I get it, there’s not a lot to go around. Small pilot programs as a start would be a good way to see what works and what does not.
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?
Although, I show my work regularly, the best place to contact me is through my website at MichaelRuizArt.com or simply emailing me at MichaelRuizArt@gmail.com. A new opportunity to help support the arts that I am looking forward to being a part of is Collateral Collective. It will be a great opportunity for individuals or groups to fund new work by local artists. Starting in spring 2019, find out more at collateralcollective.com
Contact Info:
- Website: MichaelRuizArt.com
- Email: michaelruizart@gmail.com
- Instagram: MichaelRuizArt
Image Credit:
Josue Castro – For my personal photograph and all others are my own.
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