Today we’d like to introduce you to Pierce Cruz.
Pierce, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
My story started out as a kid. Growing up, I kept to myself at home due to fears of the world around me. I watched a lot of TV and it was one of the things that nurtured my creative mind. I recall having a sort of drawing renaissance in 2009 as a kid following a hospital release for pneumonia. In about five years’ time I made over 500 pictures of various characters that I created as well as making movies with my toys (developing end credits and all). Eventually, I stuck to the idea of imagining my own life as a kind of TV show that I could use for future works. Once I went to college, I came out of my shell in a social sense and wanted to get to meet, explore, and talk with people. There was a desire to see the world and the experiences that come with it, and that was what continued to influence the kind of art work that I wanted to make. I experimented with various art mediums as well as videography and photography throughout my time in college. I have since graduated with my art degree, and I hope to continue creating work as I concurrently explore the city; growing in both experiences and in my art disciplines.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
My art primarily focuses on identity and representation. Growing up as an African American Male, I noticed bits and pieces of any positive representation that weren’t stereotypes. I have also grown conscious of a dual fear from both the plights of police brutality & racism on one side and the dangers of gun violence that plague the streets. Adding to the fact are many intersections that define who I am, including my own struggles with depression. While using my own life experiences, I make work that reflects various situations of my life. I use this to advocate for another perspective of black representation since there are a multitude of layers that aren’t often heard of nor thought about. After all, everyone has a unique story.
As an artist, I define success as finding enjoyment in doing something that you are passionate about. Many people feel stripped of this enjoyment while going through school and I have had times where I question if I am going down the right path. Honestly, I would say to just keep going for your goals because there is always room for growth and you are ultimately in control of your career. If you can impact at least one person with your work, you’ve done something right.
What do you think it takes to be successful as an artist?
As an artist, I define success in finding enjoyment in doing something that you are passionate about. Many people feel stripped of this enjoyment while going through school and I have had times where I question if I am going down the right path. Honestly, I would say to just keep going for your goals because there is always room for growth and you are ultimately in control of your career.
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?
I currently have a website that you can check out, pierceicruz.com. I also have Instagram and Facebook link that you can follow/like as well.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://pierceicruz.com
- Email: piercecruz74@yahoo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pierceicruz/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pierceicruzart/
Image Credit:
Personal Photo by Tyler Minnesma
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