Today we’d like to introduce you to Elena Maria.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Hahaha, that’s a BIG question!
I’m an artist and mental health advocate and I use my art as a platform to change the stigma associated with mental conditions. There is hope and recovery (and an even better life is possible). Personally, art has been one of the most effective tools in helping me recover after hitting rock bottom. I’m gearing up to teach my first “Art Medicine” workshop – which is more of a healing exercise with paint versus a traditional art class.
Has it been a smooth road?
It absolutely has not been a smooth road. I think I’m a rare breed as I really had to get lost to find myself. As not fun as all that was — it made me stronger and more focused on what I really want from life.
So, my advice to any young women:
“If you are going through hell, keep going.” ~Winston Churchill
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Stand Tall Art – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I’m a very, very colorful artist that is deeply inspired by nature — but painting it from a child-like wonder perspective. I got started by painting cacti filled with all sorts of life lesson’s and positive material to get me through the day. I gravitated toward the Saguaro cacti as it’s a magnificent being living in a really harsh environment. I equated that to what it’s like living in my mental environment at times and thus it became my spirit plant. That evolved into others wanting their own “spirit plant” so now, I do commissioned work as well. I essentially take all the wonderful things about someone and symbolically and energetically represent them in a truly unique design. I also donate 10% to the National Alliance on Mental Illness and am currently working towards doing something with art in a mental health capacity (more to come!).
The thing I’m most proud of? Can I say “ALL OF IT” ?!? I guess the number one thing I’m proud of is doing something creative to incite social change. When people tell me that my story and my art made an impact on them or how they are feeling — well, that’s what life is about! But I’m also humbled that my art has been so well received. I just sold my 44th creation in under two years.
I think my style of art and the way I create art is what sets me apart. I paint what my heart wants to create and try to keep my anxiety brain out of it. I also really enjoy talking to people on a deep level — which is why I enjoy the commissions so much.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve benefited from using?
Yes!
Podcasts: I love listening to “The Artist Unmasked” while I paint — about artists and business. The podcast host, Erica Orr is located in San Diego, so it’s a great resource for any local artists out there.
I’m also fascinated with the entrepreneurial mind, so I often listen to the Tim Ferriss show to hear the big hitters talk about how they do things.
Books:
Lost Connections by Yohann Hari. Anyone affected by mental illness should read this book. Actually, anyone looking to improve humanity should read it.
On Fire by John O’Leary: GREAT read to put life in perspective. John’s personal story of overcoming trauma is beyond inspiring.
And I always make time for music and comedy.
Pricing:
- Commissions $150 per square foot – booked until 2019
- Upcoming “Art Medicine” workshop on Fri Oct 19 at Soul Flow Studio – $40 in advance/ $45 at door
Contact Info:
- Website: standtallart.com
- Phone: 954-232-7883
- Email: standtallart@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elena_standtallart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Stand-Tall-Art-1567979783277899
- Other: https://soulflowstudiosd.com/events/art-medicine/
Image Credit:
Erik Larsen or myself
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.
