“I advise anyone entering the world of art never to give up and enjoy the journey… Mistakes are part of the growing process. Set small goals, one at a time, and learn from everyone.”
New York City, NY – Rubén Ruiz is an artist from the Dominican Republic who resides in Staten Island, New York City. His work caught our attention due to its powerful realism, and the beauty of its colors. As soon as we met Rubén he started telling us about how he got started in the world of art.
“Since childhood, I have been fascinated by art in all forms,” Rubén shares. “I pushed myself to get started with the help of some art books. I am completely self-taught,” he confesses. “At the age of 18, I started getting more familiar with art by creating painted T-shirts. I then began to experiment with oil painting. During that time, I had to hold other jobs to support myself and had little time for art. Six years ago, I started taking painting more seriously, and so far, I have done three solo exhibits and around 20 exhibits with other artists. I have been featured multiple times in the Staten Island local newspaper as well as have been interviewed a few times on Television.”
As we continued to discuss his work, Rubén shares that he loves to paint the beautiful things around him, “like places, people, animals, and Mother Nature in general.” As an immigrant who has made New York City his home, he shares that he finds himself constantly inspired by the sights and sounds of this great city. “My eyes are always open to new ideas and inspiration.”
When questioned about the motivation behind his work, Rubén pauses for a moment as if in search of the correct words that can actually express his passion for art, “I have a vision of what I want to create before I pick up the brush, but even the greatest artists throughout history have had difficult periods. I am constantly challenging myself, but when you love art the way I do, you don’t need motivation. You live for it. I am the happiest when I am in front of a canvas,” he smiles. “Even mistakes can be your best friends when it comes to art because they encourage you to push harder, to be better, and learn from them. They are steps to success.”
Rubén explains that to remain both personal and original with his artwork, he tries to reinvent himself as often as he can. “Latinos are known for being hard workers and creative. If life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. Latinos will also make a lemon dessert and a beauty treatment with it,” he laughs. “We do not limit ourselves. I have never doubted my potential. You are not necessarily born an artist. You make yourself an artist through hard work and determination.”
As a self-taught artist, we were curious to know how Rubén deals with the criticism that might arise from people or other artists with formal education. “I am my worst critic. I am constantly evolving and pushing myself to be better and better each time. My passion for art and seeing the achievements of other great artists is what helps me to persevere and not quit.”
As we discuss his various achievements as an artist, Rubén tells us, “My biggest achievement has come from the appreciation of people and recognition from the art community. I want the world to love and enjoy my work as much as I do. I would like to be remembered forever through my art. I want the world to appreciate and respect the great beauty of nature with the help of my paintings.”
As our conversation comes to an end, we ask Rubén our customary question, if he has any advice for the younger generation looking to follow his steps. To this, he answers, “I advise anyone entering the world of art never to give up and enjoy the journey. The learning process is fascinating. Mistakes are part of the growing process. Set small goals, one at a time, and learn from everyone. Even a child can teach you a trick or two or get you inspired. Do not let criticism discourage you; use it to make yourself better. This advice is useful not only in the world of art but for life itself.” – GM
