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

Hi Jacq, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
JacqPins came about when I decided to combine my love for enamel pins and my artistic skills. I have been creating art since I was very young- I love creating with different intentions whether they be observations from life, fan art, or original characters it was only natural to take the turn to creating different merchandise including my artwork.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
JacqPins started on a wish to add my artwork to the pin community. This brand was officially established in Jan. 2019. JacqPins features fan art from shows that I love as well as original art. My creative journey however has been much longer and I have always loved to create art in different mediums. The subject of my work has always revolved around people- whether that be creating characters from my own head or drawing my favorite cartoons or celebrities. People have always been fascinating to me as a subject because each and every individual is unique, despite many similarities they might have with one another. People are multi-faceted and it is fascinating to capture and encompass a whole being into one piece. I am and will continue to create art that represents my family, my community, and myself. I strive to create art that compels the viewer to rethink the western standards of beauty that society has placed upon them, making them question their own standards of beauty and whatever bias they might have. I create art that represents a person rather than an unrealistic, idealized version of people. I create because it is what has given me strength to be my authentic self. The one thing that I have learned in creating art is that persistence is key. Continue to create even if times are rough. Continue to create even if you feel as if you can’t. Take breaks if necessary, but never forget the goal is to continue creating.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I adore the Rothko Chapel and its surrounding areas. The Rothko Chapel is the perfect place to meditate and appreciate artwork from one of the more well known artists in history, Mark Rothko. The Menil Collection is also nearby and that is a wonderful space to visit that has some amazing art! I highly recommend taking a day trip to visit these spaces. There are also some great restaurants nearby to enjoy, my personal favorite being Lúa Viet Kitchen.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to shout out some of my middle school teachers that continued to push me to be artistic and pursue the things I love. Thank you Neda Khan for being an amazing art teacher and for giving me proper guidance when creating art and encouraging me to continue creating. Thank you Kristen Sheils for being an amazing teacher and person- you have been such a source of support and I am so thankful for your encouragement. I would also like to thank my pin best friend, Lexi Neenan (Pinfluencial Co.), for continuing to be my rock, helping me with designs, and encouraging me to grow and continue my journey as an artist and pin maker. I want to show my thanks to my very good friend and organizer Aisha Haider (PLUMP swap) for being an overall amazing person and friend. You continue to inspire me to create and continue to collaborate and grow together. Finally, I would love to thank my family for their support.

Instagram: instagram.com/jacqpins
Facebook: facebook.com/jacpins
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwaUfqNNVnFxOVAwoH7iuVQ
Other: email: jacqpins@gmail.com