Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your artistic background?
I’ve had a knack for creativity since I was a kid. I have always sought outlets for making something out of nothing, which I think is the most beautiful thing about art itself.
What inspired you to become a member of the Eagle Pass Digital Arts Society (EPDAS)?
One of the negative things you always hear in this town is “you can’t do anything here, if you wanna succeed you need to leave” and unfortunately, sometimes it’s true. However, I hope someday this is not something we have to say and I think this is one of the first steps in achieving that!
How did you first hear about EPDAS, and what motivated you to join?
Last year I started my own journey. I decided to create my own website (Kiya Insider) that highlighted all the great things in town. With access to local businesses, restaurants, orgs, resources, anything you could need & more. In this, the goal is to bring more attention to our local businesses and help them get their info out there. Through this I gained many acquaintances, one of them being Night Owl Artworks, who invited me to a member meeting, and that’s where we started!
Since joining EPDAS, what has been your experience like as a member?
Joining this organization has opened my eyes to the many talented people we have. So many different people have such great talents in such different mediums, and seeing everyone bring their talents together to bring this organization to life is such a wonderful feeling!
Joining this organization has opened my eyes to the many talented people we have. So many different people have such great talents in such different mediums, and seeing everyone bring their talents together to bring this organization to life is such a wonderful feeling!
Can you share any memorable moments or experiences you've had with EPDAS so far?
My favorite memory is the most recent one, our Earth Day event. Seeing the community get excited about what our organization is and does was nice to see. Even more beautiful was the happiness that radiated from their faces when they got to create art from the activities we provided!
What do you feel are the main benefits of being part of EPDAS as an artist?
It provides the community an outlet for creativity and shows future generations that there is something to stay for or to come back to! It also gives me a push to continue with my artistic pursuits instead of putting them off.
How have you found the sense of community within EPDAS, and how has it influenced your artistic practice?
I find the interactions I have with other artists that have different styles and work with different mediums so invigorating, and it opens new horizons to my own abilities.
In what ways do you feel EPDAS has helped you grow as an artist or expand your skills?
It’s opened my eyes to the different processes each artist has and gives me ideas of things I want to incorporate into my own art
Are there any specific workshops, events, or resources provided by EPDAS that have been particularly valuable to you?
The recent paper making workshop they had exclusively for members is something I wish I could have been a part of. Personally, I like to journal in my spare time, and making my own paper is something I’ve been wanting to learn to get one step closer to making my own journal!
What are your aspirations or goals for your artistic journey, and how do you see EPDAS playing a role in achieving them?
My main goal is to expand my skills and knowledge of all types of art, but I hope to continue with EPDAS on their journey towards growth and involvement in the community!
Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience with EPDAS or your artistic journey?
I’m grateful there is something like this in our community that can bring people of different backgrounds and personalities together towards one common love of art.
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