Today we’d like to introduce you to Analisa “nana” Vela
Hi Analisa, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’M NANA
Painter, Graphic Designer and Creative+
I’m 33 years old and have been a professional, self-representing artist for over 15 years; working from San Antonio, Texas where I was born and raised.
I have been drawing since a very young age! I remember as a child always wanting to be around my father. He worked a very extensive job and would sometimes need to be away for periods of time. He has a love for drawing landscapes, and I remember wanted to always be around and draw with him! Thats how I found my love for portrait drawing and I still do a massive load of them as commission work for clients! I started commissioning my art around the age of 15 and from there my processes and creative skills have blossomed.
I love all forms of design and the creative industries but interiors have become my go to. There’s something about how a space can make you feel that I find so motivating!
With health and fitness being a massive part of my lifestyle, I find my work today being a lot about self awareness. Whether that’s our physical bodies and the way we look, or our minds and the way we feel. Knowing ourselves is a process that is a constant lesson and I aim to aid that with Art.
If you’ve just read through all of that, thanks! lol!
Hopefully you feel like you know me a bit more!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Being a full-time artist has definitely not been a smooth road, but it’s been a journey filled with growth and resilience. One of the major challenges has been navigating the impact of the economy on small businesses like mine. Art is often seen as a luxury, and during tough economic times, people tend to cut back on such expenses, which directly affects artists. This inconsistency in sales can lead to very challenging months, especially when there’s no steady paycheck to rely on.
Additionally, being a woman in this industry presents its own set of difficulties. I’ve encountered situations where potential buyers or clients have shown interest in my work, only to shift their focus and try to pursue something personal instead of professional. This can be disheartening and frustrating, as it undermines my work and the effort I put into it.
Despite these struggles, I remain committed to my craft. It’s the passion for what I do that keeps me going, even when the road gets tough.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Behind the Art
My inspiration comes from a desire to inspire others to explore themselves and find freedom in expressing who they are. I believe that everyone deserves to feel embraced as they are and feel comfortable in their skin
Being a Creative that does many styles of art there are so many different reasons why I do what I do. Also, why I LOVE WHAT I DO! I believe that life is an adventure and there is an abundance of inspiration all around us
Being able to do mural work or commission portraits are pretty self-explanatory as to why I love to do them so much! Creating lasting memories for those who request them is one of the most amazing feelings.
As mentioned earlier most of my art pieces are of the physical body, for these I aim to offer a space for you to see yourself in the subjects I paint; these bold, authentic and confident people who are eager to shine bright (most pieces glow under blacklight) in the world vibrantly and with enthusiasm.
Lastly, My chicana styled art (mainly my stickers) are a way for me to show my playful side that seems to really connect with y’all! Stickers have definitely been my most bought items and I enjoy seeing my work on tumblers, journals, laptops, etc.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What truly makes me happy is being able to do the work I love every day and seeing how it brings joy to others. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about creating art that resonates with people and knowing that it can brighten their day or inspire them in some way. Additionally, throughout my journey as an artist, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the unwavering support of my family and friends. Their encouragement and belief in me have been a constant source of happiness and motivation, reminding me that I’m never alone in this path.
Pricing:
- Portraits start at $250
- Custom Denim Jackets start at $100
- Original Pieces start at $250
- Stickers start at $3.00
- Prints start at $20
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.NanasCreativeCorner.com
- Instagram: @NanasCreativeCorner
- Facebook: @Nana2722
- Youtube: @Nanalisa27
