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

Hi Bendición, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
An affirmation I like is “Con Confianza” which translates to “with confidence”. I used to struggle with my confidence but art has played a big role in building my confidence. This was not my favorite affirmation until my boyfriend would always remind me. Everything I do, do it “con confianza”. It helps motivate me when I doubt myself, and makes me push myself more with in my goals.

Please tell us more about your art. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
In the beginning, I was afraid to share my art. My art was my therapy and I felt like most of my creations came from hurt and most did. I felt like others would not understand, but I realized no one will understand my own meaning. They will only understand there’s and that is what I wanted, others to give their own interpretation. My art comes from my past experiences, my culture, and what I experience now. Most of my paintings have a story behind it because giving meaning to my work is what motivates me. I like to try different styles but most of my art can be considered more surrealist. I get excited to hear other’s thoughts and meanings to my work. Even though I know my own story behind it, I like others to share their own interpretation because it gives more meaning and imagination. Sometimes it is not easy to always create and do customs due to my own mental challenges. They can get in the way, but it helps to take a break and slowly start doodling and get back to creating. The main reason why I love art, either if it is painting, dancing, etc, is because sometimes I do not know how to express how I feel with words. My way to understand and express myself is through mostly painting and drawing. I like to tell or show this to others becuase I know many people can express themselves this way too.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
The East End has my heart. It has a great art scene, culture, great food, and refresquerias. There are two places filled with murals which are on Leeland St. and H.A.M. down Harrisburg. I like to take people to the Tlaquepaque market which has treats of mexico and Kismet Boutique. So you can get some snacks then shop for some goodies. I like to play soccer at Eastwood park with family friends who live in the East End. There are many places to check out while driving through the East End and art is everywhere.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My close friends and boyfriend have been the main people who have supported and encouraged me through my process. They always try to make it to each event I go to and help me set up or stay with me through the event. They spend time with me while I am working on a mural. When I feel stuck or unmotivated they try to help me get out of that funk. I would not have come this far without their support. I also appreciate the support from the people and other creatives I have met on the way. It makes me happy to know that my art can mean something to others as it does to me. I also appreciate the mentorship of Artist and Professor, Floyd Newsum. He has taught me new skills and supported me which is a great honor.

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BendyCiel
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bendyciel/?hl=en

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.