Today we’d like to introduce you to Jackie Marquez.
Hi Jackie, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I come from a family of creatives! They inspired me to tap into my artistic side despite pursuing other professions. My creative journey began as a child. I found it difficult to express my emotions and feelings at a young age, so putting my imagination on paper was an easier method of expression. I always found joy in attending art classes throughout my school years, but as I got older, I believed I couldn’t support myself professionally as a full-time artist. I believed I needed to live in a big city or know the right people to succeed. My dreams of becoming an artist faded as I went to school to become a psychologist. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in psychology but decided not to pursue that as a career. My heart still longed to be an artist. I always knew I wanted to help people, but I didn’t know how. When the pandemic hit, I needed to find ways to entertain myself and decided to dive back into drawing. Since high school, I hadn’t put a pencil on paper, so it felt wonderful to be back. 2020, for me, was a year of reflection. I realized that I am most myself when I’m creating. I love and want to pursue this full time, no matter what it takes!
You wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been smooth?
This road has been a challenging one. I have struggled with the concept of living out my purpose. I was scared of putting myself out there, worried about what people will think of me—thinking that I couldn’t make money as an artist or that I wasn’t skilled enough. I was scared of trusting the universe after seeing the rug being swept out from other people’s feet. But I knew I would never know if I had never tried, so I decided to change. My devotion to my spirituality gave me the strength and courage to let go of my self-limiting attitudes and behaviors. Healing is an ongoing journey, but it has allowed me to trust in myself and the universe. Since then, I have received many opportunities and blessings and couldn’t be more appreciative.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a metaphysical or visionary artist, expressing my visions through digital creation and painting. The cosmos and its infinite stretch inspire me to create my interpretations of the stars and our Earthly beauty. Like any artist, we evolve and dabble in different genres of art. The piece I am most proud of was a unique theme created to help The Refugee Services of Texas. The opportunity to utilize my artistic side to benefit such an organization was enriching. This has inspired me to continue to explore different themes as well as continue exploring ways where I can apply my art to benefit others.
What does success mean to you?
Success is pursuing the things that you love. We go to school for a degree to obtain a practical job, typically one we don’t love. We then put our dreams and goals on the back burner, trying to make ends meet. But, as a society, we need to break out of this stigma. It’s never too late to do the things you love! All the lessons and mistakes I have learned throughout my life have shaped me into who I am today. I believe that being an artist is my way of helping people, but in a way that truly fulfills my soul. I now wake up feeling excited about the career I am building and the person I am becoming. I hope my art helps you heal and that my story inspires you to pursue your dreams!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.crystallinecactus.myportfolio.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/crystalline.cactus
- Other: www.tiktok.com/@crystallinecactus
Image Credits
Alexis Garcia
