Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicholas Gonzales.
Hi Nicholas, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in Oak Cliff but spent most of my time in the Bishop Arts District. I found out growing up how much I loved the arts, so much that I decided to pursue it with my studies. This encouraged my individuality through what I wanted to be, an artist. At Rosemont Elementary, I had an art teacher who noticed my talents and really encouraged me to pursue this direction. My journey began when I decided to audition for W. E Greiner’s Art Academy, which led to my acceptance into Booker T. Washington High School for Performing and Visual Arts – this is where my passion for art really blossomed. The instructors aided me in improving my craft and gave me the fundamentals to create the foundation needed to jump-start what would be my career.
Once I graduated in 2011, I worked with designing window displays for a gift ship in Dallas until 2013. The creation and design for the store was fun, but I was ready for my next step. As fate would have it, I was introduced to a company called Fauxcades for a painting position. I really impressed the owners at the time and accepted a position as Lead Painter. Little did I know that this position would take me so far into a realm of art I never knew I would step into. At Fauxcades, I gained experience in many departments such as the wood, paint, metal and the sculpture studio. With the advantage of being in a location with so many forms of art, I knew I was where I needed to be. My skill set already included graphic design, so this naturally pushed me into the direction of the Sign Department to learn printing, where I found my niche. I love all the aspects of designing signage for special events. This provided me the opportunity to collaborate with event planners and clients that wanted to bring their ideas and creations to life.
In 2016, I was promoted to a leadership position within the Sign Shop to manage, create and execute any projects while leading a team. Fast forward to today, I continue to be a part of the Fauxcades team, where I have fulfilled my passion for art. Working in the event industry has taught me how to keep up with a fast-paced environment. Overall, I love to paint, draw and create whenever I can. I am so fortunate to be a part of such an amazing company where I can still grow and learn new skills each day. I never knew what sort of things I could accomplish with art and how it would become my “job.” It’s hard to call a profession like this a job when you enjoy it so much.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Being an artist has its moments, finding a job you love to do every day is no easy task. I had to work numerous jobs in between to get myself started. I would not be where I am today without the persistence to push through all my challenges. Some of these being personal, others just the basic life lessons we all learn. A struggle I had to overcome was how fast the event industry is. There would be times where projects were being requested left and right, which required me to have extra dedication. This was a little challenging since I set a standard for myself to ensure that a project was done correctly for our clients. Working in my profession, you learn many ways to get things done with little to no time. Time management is key and was a process to overcome, but I succeeded. Whenever there is a challenge or obstacle, I learned to handle them calmly and smoothly. Another challenge that comes to mind is the design portion always evolving – new trends coming in every day. This has taught me to be flexible with client requests and attention to detail. I am always up for the challenge and excited to see what the outcome will be. Overall, I like to start my day with a smile and a good cup of coffee, knowing I will get through.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
For starters, Fauxcades is a full-service event design, production and rental company that owns over 10,000 event items ranging in items from bars, lounge furniture, oversized entrances, backdrops and basically anything you can think of. We operate in a 65,000 square foot warehouse in the DFW Metroplex. Fauxcades has a long-standing partnership with other event vendors allowing them to coordinate all event requirements to be a one-stop shop for event production. I am part of the production team and I create custom graphics for special events. This includes but is not limited to custom renderings, proofs, proposals, installation and final creation for our signage.
Although I am primarily in the Sign Shop, I also assist as needed in our other departments allowing me to be flexible and well-rounded. We create all the graphics and designs for special events such as weddings, social celebrations, corporate events and non-profit organizations. Our clients come to us with their ideas and vision, and we help translate them into their reality however possible. We provide custom signs, printed canvases, banners and interactive works, just to name a few. I am most proud of my work when I meet and exceed client expectations, really outdoing the creativity of their initial designs. I feel this comes naturally to me with my eye for design, allowing me to create in such a unique way that is special to only me. When I am not at work producing, I love to paint and draw in my spare time. This helps me unwind after a long day and let my mind wander. When I am available, I love to volunteer my time to the community, especially when I get to polish my creativity. I have participated in art shows, local live performances and designing for local companies.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
I would say the most important lesson I’ve learned is the ability to review multiple perceptions in a given scenario when collaborating with others. Having patience is key when there is a moment that may have “too many chefs in the kitchen”. I have really learned how to respect and consider the wants of others and come to an agreement that compliments the best of both worlds. Thankfully, this lesson has helped my career with understanding how to help my clients and their expectations.
Contact Info:
- Email: nick@fauxcades.com
- Website: Fauxcades.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicholasrgonzales/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Fauxcades-Creative-Event-Design-267604476656667/
Image Credits
Kaitlyn Brown
