Today we’d like to introduce you to Karla Peregrina.
Hi Karla, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up immersed in the vibrant maximalism of the early 2000s, watching creativity evolve hand in hand with technology. This sparked my curiosity for design from a young age, leading me to experiment with collages and illustrations online, where I began shaping my own style. Later, I pursued a degree in graphic design, which expanded my artistic perspective and connected me deeply to the world of graphic arts, especially screen printing and painting.
My career started in design agencies, but I quickly realized I needed more creative freedom. In 2018, I launched Radiante, a self-managed project exploring illustration and merchandising. Inspired by symbols like the sun, stars, nature, and lighthearted phrases, Radiante is all about positivity, expressed through a bold pop style with a focus on color block and bright yellow tones. This project became a platform for my artistic growth and a space where other creatives could connect and collaborate.
By 2022, I dove deeper into visual arts and painting, specializing in capturing bold, colorful expressionist styles. I started documenting my daily life through digital and analog photography, often using these as references for my artwork. My work has been showcased in local cafés and institutions like IMAC, UABC, CETYS, and La Caja Galería. Beyond creating art, I’ve been actively involved in organizing and promoting cultural and community events, collaborating on projects with organizations like CZ Green and Colectivo Tomate. From painting murals in Tijuana and Ciudad Juárez to designing visual identities and posters for multidisciplinary gatherings, I’ve found joy in merging creativity with community impact.
In 2023, I co-founded Vision 8 Creative Lab with my closest friends, offering high-quality graphic solutions for multidisciplinary events. This venture has opened doors for collaborations with institutions like La Casa Norte in Tijuana and Hopscotch in San Diego.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The path of art is rarely a smooth road, especially in an industrialized city that doesn’t pause its flow to appreciate the growing art within it. Personally, I had to work hard to afford my art studies, as it wasn’t a possibility my family could provide. I stumbled upon obstacles along the way, like marketing bosses who exploited their employees’ creativity, boxing them into windowless cages. I learned to protect my creativity and listen to my own work needs to avoid burnout.
I definitely carved my path from the ground up, expressing my ideas and sharing them through digital platforms. Art itself has always been the driving force that helped me navigate through these difficulties.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I consider myself a visual artist. I explore disciplines such as painting, photography, illustration, and design, blending them to discover new paths of communication. I specialize in expressive and vibrant styles, with a subtle focus on psychology and how emotions are reflected in colors, creating a connection that returns to the viewer. In my community, I’m mainly known for the Radiante project, promoting the phrase “Let’s make Tijuana radiant” as a commitment to my city to foster a positive and hopeful environment. I’m very proud of the path I’ve built from a young age, blending community work with art, while distinguishing myself through the consistency of my work and the boldness with which I express myself across various media.
Currently, I’m organizing a new solo exhibition, opening January 31 at Julep Coffee. I’ve carefully curated the pieces to reinterpret everyday moments through vibrant colors and the emotions they evoke, weaving together bold expression and introspection. Moving forward, I’m teaming up with Vision 8 and La Casa Norte to develop events focused on the growing film industry in Tijuana. At the same time, I’m passionate about preserving and revitalizing Mexican muralism, working to create opportunities for its continued growth in my city.
I’m excited for what’s next—exploring, growing, and collaborating on projects that push the boundaries of art and creativity, both locally and beyond.
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
I believe that to succeed in the world of art, you must study, practice, and stay consistent. It’s essential to have clear ideas, believe in them, and carry them out in a way that aligns with your capabilities and motivations. In addition, creating connections within the artistic community and growing together is key. Sharing and spreading your ideas through all available mediums helps you connect with the audience, but it’s important not to fall into the trap of creating for others—always create from your own intuition. For me, learning this on my journey and being able to create freely is the most important thing.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://karlaperegrina.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karlaperegrina/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karlasperegrina/
- Linkedin: https://karlaperegrina.myportfolio.com/
- Twitter: https://www.behance.net/karlaperegrina
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/radiante.kp/. https://www.instagram.com/vision.8.lab/
Image Credits
Photograph by Andrea Morales
