Little Piñata Maker Interview

Tell us about your brand.
Years ago, I embarked on the creation of My Little Piñatas with a simple intention—to have a miniature piñata adorning the rearview mirror of my car. Little did I know that this modest vision would evolve into something much larger. Despite searching far and wide, from Los Angeles to Mexico City, I couldn't find exactly what my imagination envisioned. So, I took matters into my own hands, undergoing a journey of trial and error until I perfected a method to mass-produce these little piñatas, imbued with a greater purpose.

​As a Chicano, my cultural roots and childhood memories have profoundly influenced my creative journey. Piñatas were a cherished tradition at family birthday parties, acting as vibrant symbols that brought us together to celebrate life's milestones in a joyous and festive manner. The lively designs of these piñatas never failed to captivate my imagination; I always yearned to be the one breaking them open.

Beyond personal nostalgia, the piñata has served as a unifying force in my community, fostering celebrations that honor our life and culture. It has emerged as an iconic symbol within Latino culture, a fact that fills me with immense pride. My Little Piñatas embodies a celebration of art and culture through its vibrant and distinctive designs. It extends an invitation for everyone to partake in the celebration of Latino culture by preserving these creative, colorful works of art and sharing them with others. It stands as a visual testament deeply rooted in art, community, culture, and history.
​
Designed to endure the test of time, My Little Piñatas are not meant for destruction but rather preservation. This design philosophy reflects my desire for people to cherish their art and culture, sharing it with the world. It encourages a fresh perspective, urging us to transcend preconceived notions and connect with others in celebration of our collective beauty and uniqueness.

When did you know that this was the right path for you?
One of my earliest memories of artistic exploration dates back to kindergarten, where I was handed a cardboard tray and encouraged to dip marbles in paint, rolling them around to craft an abstract masterpiece. This cherished childhood experience, filled with curiosity and excitement, laid the visual foundation for my journey as a creative artist.

In Mrs. Leaper's third-grade class, a pivotal moment crystalized when I resolved to become an artist. I enthusiastically shared this decision with my classmates and family, and from that point on, I have unwaveringly followed the path of artistic expression. Visual art and storytelling have become the focal points of my creative pursuits. They provide a canvas for me to indulge in creative freedom, allowing me to articulate thoughts, express opinions, and convey emotions in a way that no other medium can match.

The act of making, sharing, and teaching art is not just a vocation; it's my life's passion and mission. As a creative and spiritual being, I am profoundly grateful for the myriad visual influences that have supported and shaped my artistic journey. Each brushstroke, every shared moment, and each lesson taught contributes to the intricate tapestry of my artistic existence, and for that, I am truly thankful.

What do you like most about what you do?
I derive immense joy from crafting art that not only fulfills my passion but also serves as a wellspring of inspiration and entertainment for others. The process of working with my tools and materials is a deeply gratifying experience, allowing me to meticulously fashion vibrant, miniature pieces of art that hold significant value in the lives of those who encounter them.

What is the biggest obstacle you have faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?
Overcoming self-doubt has been the most significant challenge in my career. The persistent negative thoughts and fears have often hindered progress, making the creative process arduous and disheartening. Fortunately, my commitment to mindfulness practices has paved the way for a transformative journey.

Through meditation and embracing a growth mindset, I've managed to navigate and conquer this daunting challenge. One mantra that has profoundly impacted my life in the past year is, "Live the flow, not the fear." This approach involves allowing the natural course of life to unfold without judgment or overthinking, resulting in remarkable outcomes. It's not about eliminating fear entirely but rather refusing to let fear dictate the trajectory. By prioritizing the flow of life over succumbing to fear, I've witnessed incredible transformations and successes in my creative endeavors.

If your phone could ring right now with your dream opportunity, what would that be?
Embarking on a whimsical piñata art-making tour across the country is a dream of mine. Having previously been featured in California and New Mexico, I'm inspired to take this creative journey to a national level. Imagine a mobile studio, a vibrant vehicle, traversing various states to host pop-up galleries and conduct engaging art-making activities. The positive experiences I've had in the two states I've explored affirm the potential for many more to benefit from this unique and enriching artistic adventure. The vision is to spread creativity, joy, and artistic expression far and wide, connecting with diverse communities throughout the country.

What do you want people to remember most about you and your career?
I want to emphasize my deep gratitude for every individual's existence. I firmly believe that for me to exist, you must exist, creating an intricate web of interconnected lives. Visual art, in its myriad forms, serves as a profoundly beautiful and remarkable conduit for us to connect and share aspects of how we thrive in this world together. It's a testament to the shared human experience, transcending boundaries and fostering a collective appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us.