Meet Laura Garcia

Community: Meet Spotlight Guest Laura Garcia - Cantoo City

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This month, we're excited to introduce you to Laura, a passionate Mexican-Canadian artist and Graphic Designer. Her personal journey weaves heritage, family influence, and dedicated growth. Laura's art reflects her unique cultural blend. Join us as we uncover her story and personal insights.

When did you start creating traditional art, drawings, and illustrations?

My love for drawing, illustrations and art started at a very young age. I had the influence of older family members doing Graphic Design and studying art so I began drawing very young. However, my real experience with traditional art and different techniques occurred during my time in high-school and university. I had the opportunity to take painting classes with a Mexican artist (Sandra del Valle), where I started to explore and create more seriously. These experiences unlocked a world of traditional art, techniques, and contemporary styles that have shaped my work.

What themes or subjects do you prefer to focus on while creating art pieces?

The human body (especially artistic nudes) is one of my favourite subjects when creating art. You can see this in my recent collection, entitled "Dancing in My Own World". In this series of drawings, I represent the human body in the form of dancers. Another subject that also inspires me comes from my love for my Mexican background and traditions. Most recently, I've been working on another collection called "Mis Catrinas". Here, the main subject is the traditional Mexican Catrina, the symbol that represents the Day of the Dead tradition.

Can you share the story behind your favourite piece of art? Why is it so important to you?

One of my favourite pieces is a Catrina that I named "La Ladina". This one is very special for me because it was dedicated to my late grandma who passed away when I was a teenager, which I created in 2022 for the Day of the Dead celebrations. My grandma always loved all my creations, and would say to me, "What beautiful things you do with those tiny hands of yours". Her words are always with me each time I work on my pieces, so I would love to think that she is always with me looking at what I'm creating. The accompanying IG reel features her favorite song, making this piece a heartfelt connection to her memory.

What would you tell a beginner starting in your field?

I think my biggest advice would be…"Practice, practice, practice!" When you keep practicing, the inspiration can come out of nowhere and your hand can do wonderful things. You must believe in your art and yourself and take your time. As I continually say to myself, "There is no rushing in art!"

Any fun or interesting facts about you?

Amid my ongoing collections, I enjoy Instagram art challenges. These creative breaks offer skill practice and a connection with fellow artists. Instagram bridges the artist's solitary journey, fostering community and camaraderie. Turning a personal pursuit into a shared adventure.

Laura's journey interlaces heritage and dedication, infusing her art with life. Family influences and painting classes have shaped her evolving story. Themes of the human form and Mexican culture imbue her creations. "La Ladina" resonates with her profound family tie. Remember, practice and believe. Her journey underscores that art is a shared exploration. Until next time!