Meet Arlene Yanes | Artist & Dance Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Arlene Yanes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Arlene, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
From a young age, my parents nurtured my creative side. My dad loved music and drawing, and my mother studied ballet in Mexico and loved to dance in general. I was very much influenced by both as I became a dance instructor and continued painting as a hobby and a way to destress.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’m definitely proud of putting myself and my work out in public. I have always been a shy and reserved person but creating these jarritos has given me more confidence in my art. I’m thankful for the feedback and compliments I’ve received from my amazing customers. At the start of CantaRicos, I think my biggest struggle was starting a sketch on a cup. I tend to want every line, shape, and color to be precise, which can be very time-consuming and frustrating. With time, I’ve let myself do more freehand paintings. I think I’ve done some great work when I trust myself and just start!
Another reason I began CantaRicos is that I love decorating for parties. I have a huge family and we love our fiestas which always have cute decorations, good food, and drinks. I like to create these jarritos not only for the cute photos I could take but also as a reminder of the great times we had as a family! That’s exactly what I want people who order from CanatRicos to think of when they reuse their cups. Our jarrito cups are created with nothing but family love. The entire family helps out whether it be prepping them for delivery or putting on finishing touches.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Houston has so much good food and fun activities, it’s so hard to pick! I would plan a walk around Herman park to chat and catch up and then head over to ride on the pedal boats. Another outdoor activity I love is bike riding through downtown at night and walk through Discovery Green, there’s always fun events going on.

One of my favorite places to eat and hang out in the downtown area is the Rustic. The live country music is always amazing and the food tops it off. If I’m craving seafood, my go to is La Fisheria. Their appetizers are delicious, do not get me started on their ceviche, and the drinks are just as good!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Like many, my biggest supporters have been my family! As an artist, you are your worst critic. My parents have always admired my work and let me know how great it looks when I begin having doubts…my siblings are right behind them hyping me up! Another shout-out would be to my great friend Miguel for suggesting the idea of putting my art skills and love of my Latino culture together to create CantaRicos. I love how our jarrito cups bring that bit of authenticity to our fiestas!

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