Today we’d like to introduce you to Arturo Carrillo.
Hi Arturo, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My incredible journey began in the beautiful city of Guanajuato, Mexico, where I took my first breath of life. Little did I know that this humble beginning would shape the course of my life in the most extraordinary ways. Soon after, my family moved to the vibrant streets of Las Vegas, where I spent my formative years growing up, attending school, and nurturing my deep love for the arts.
However, as time went on, I realized that the fast-paced city life no longer resonated with the person I was becoming. A burning passion for the great outdoors ignited within me, urging me to explore and embrace a different path. It was a profound realization that compelled me to make a bold decision—a decision that would change my life forever.
Just five days after my graduation, filled with determination and an unyielding spirit, I embarked on a bus journey to the Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. The summer of June 2011 marked a significant milestone as I proudly claimed my title as a United States Marine. Over the course of the next five years, I dedicated myself to honing my skills, developing my craft, and forging the unbreakable bonds that have shaped the person I am today.
After completing my service, a new chapter began as I relocated to Dallas to assist my father in starting his construction business. Yet, amidst the hustle of entrepreneurship, I discovered an unexpected passion that would forever alter my perspective—photography. In 2016, I held a camera in my hands, and it was love at first sight. The magic of capturing moments, freezing emotions, and telling stories through the lens captivated my soul.
Driven by a desire to connect with fellow photographers who shared my unwavering passion, I embarked on a quest to find a community in Dallas that would embrace me fully. Although my search proved challenging, it only deepened my resolve. It was during this journey that a beautiful dream was born—a dream to create a low-light photography community that would ignite the sparks of inspiration in the hearts of its members.
And so, Art Factory emerged—a haven for like-minded individuals seeking to express themselves through the captivating art of photography. What began as a virtual gathering of strangers rapidly transformed into a tangible and vibrant local community in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Together, we gather, united by our shared love for low-light photography, to create awe-inspiring imagery that speaks volumes.
Art Factory is not merely a community; it is a family where souls flourish, and creative freedom knows no bounds. Our purpose reaches far beyond capturing breathtaking photos. It is about providing a platform for those who have long been silenced by financial constraints or societal expectations—a place where dreams can be realized.
In this safe haven, we host regular meet-ups, bringing together passionate photographers to share knowledge, ideas, and experiences. Every other month, we hold workshops, nurturing the growth of our members and empowering them to push the boundaries of their artistry. With every click of the shutter, we weave a tapestry of stories, emotions, and connections that celebrate the essence of humanity.
As we journey forward into 2023, the story of Art Factory is only just beginning. With hearts full of anticipation and excitement, we eagerly await the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. Our family continues to grow, spreading its wings to touch the lives of countless individuals yearning for a community where they can belong.
Together, we strive to create magnificent sets and capture images that transport us to the realms of movies, transcending the ordinary and embracing the extraordinary. Through the power of art, we break the shackles of societal constraints and financial struggles, empowering each other to unleash our full potential.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Throughout this remarkable journey with Art Factory, I have encountered a fair share of challenges and obstacles. Starting a new photography workshop and community from scratch is not without its struggles. However, my determination and the support of the right people have propelled Art Factory forward, allowing us to bring Art Factory to life after four to five years of dedicated effort.
One of the primary challenges I faced was finding the right individuals who shared my vision and were willing to embark on this creative venture with me. Building a community requires a collective passion, a shared belief in the power of art, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive and nurturing environment. It took time and patience to find like-minded souls who would become the foundation of Art Factory.
I reached out to fellow photographers, seeking kindred spirits who longed for a community where they could freely express their art. I scoured social media, attended events, and engaged in countless conversations, hoping to connect with individuals who shared my deep love for low-light photography. It was a process of trial and error, but the universe rewarded the Art Factory with the perfect blend of talent, passion, and camaraderie.
The journey of Art Factory was not a linear path but a winding road of discovery and growth. We learned from every setback and utilized those lessons to refine our approach. We faced financial challenges and encountered doubts along the way, wondering if our dreams were too audacious. But with each setback, we found renewed determination to overcome and prove that art can flourish despite adversity.
With perseverance, we are piecing together the puzzle of Art Factory. The community has begun to take shape, attracting individuals who shared our dreams and aspirations. Together, we unite under the common goal of creating something extraordinary—a space where imagination could run wild and artistic boundaries could be pushed.
As the months passed, our family begins to grow, and the impact of Art Factory is now beginning to ripple through the Dallas-Fort Worth area. We experienced moments of pure magic and witnessed the transformation of aspiring photographers into confident artists. The workshop we organized became a stepping stone for growth, enabling participants to refine their skills and unleash their creativity. Through collaboration and family support, we are creating a space that fosters artistic expression and personal development.
Today, Art Factory stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, community, and the pursuit of artistic freedom. We have learned that the greatest achievements often require time, patience, and a steadfast belief in one’s dreams. The struggles we are encountering along the way have only fortified our resolve, reminding us that every worthwhile endeavor demands dedication and a willingness to overcome obstacles.
Looking ahead, we embrace the unknown with open hearts and minds, eager to witness the continued growth of Art Factory. We remain committed to providing an inclusive and empowering space for individuals to connect, grow, and create freely. Our aim is to extend our reach, touching the lives of those who have yet to discover their creative potential and inspire them to embark on their own artistic journeys with the Art Factory Family standing behind them.
Our story is only beginning, but it serves as a reminder to all who aspire to pursue their passions—to remain steadfast in the face of adversity, seek out those who share your vision, and create a space where artistic dreams can flourish.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a low-light photographer who thrives on pushing the boundaries of creativity. I am not one to shy away from exploring the uncharted territories of my craft. I seek to capture the essence of the moment and infuse it with the enchanting allure of darkness and light.
Motivated by the artists I consider my family, I am constantly inspired to delve deeper into the realms of conceptual photography and low-light techniques. It is through this unique blend of styles that I have discovered my own voice—a voice that resonates with a visual language that is both captivating and evocative.
In the embrace of the Art Factory community, I have found a sanctuary where my passion can thrive. These talented individuals, my fellow photographers, have become my second family—a support system that lifts me up, encourages me to push my limits, and challenges me to tell stories through my lens like never before. Together, we embark on a shared journey of growth and discovery, each step fueling our collective artistic journey.
What sets me apart is not only my unwavering dedication to low-light photography but also my ability to merge it with conceptual elements. This blend allows me to create imagery that is truly unique, captivating viewers and drawing them into a world of emotion and storytelling. I believe that photography is an art form that should stir the soul, and I strive to achieve that with every frame I capture.
Beyond the realm of personal expression, my passion for low-light photography has also opened doors to help small businesses tell their stories. Through compelling imagery that speaks to their brand goals and mission, I have become a trusted partner in their journey. I understand the power of visual storytelling and its ability to convey the essence of a business, sparking connections and resonating with audiences on a profound level. It is a privilege to contribute to their success.
As I reflect on my journey, I am grateful for the path that led me to Art Factory and the transformative power it holds. It has provided me with a platform to not only nurture my own creativity but also to uplift others, empowering them to share their stories and visions through the medium of photography.
With each passing day, I am reminded that my journey as an artist is not a solitary one. It is a collaborative dance, a symphony of inspiration and shared dreams. Together, we are rewriting the narratives, celebrating the beauty found in the shadows, and painting a world that evokes emotion, ignites curiosity, and captures the imagination.
I have found my voice, my purpose, and a group of fellow creatives who have become my extended family. They inspire me, challenge me, and remind me that the pursuit of art is not just about the individual, but about the collective journey we embark on together.
With every photograph I capture, I strive to tell a story that transcends the limitations of words, reaching deep into my heart and emotions. Through the magical interplay of light and darkness, I aim to evoke emotions, spark connections, and leave a lasting impression that lingers long after the image is seen.
Through Art Factory, I have discovered not only my own potential but also the transformative nature of a community that nurtures creativity, fosters growth, and celebrates the boundless possibilities of artistic expression.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
About four years into my journey in Dallas, fate brought an extraordinary encounter into my life. I met an individual who, like me, was born in the same place—Guanajuato, Mexico. In an instant, we recognized the shared passion we held for family, self-expression, and storytelling. Perhaps it was the connection we felt from hailing from the same city, or maybe it was our inherent understanding of the weight of responsibility as Mexican sons, seen as guiding lights and future providers for our families. Nonetheless, our mutual love for photography has made carrying that weight a little easier.
Amidst the struggles and challenges we faced as we ventured into the photography industry, our passions brought us together and birthed what is now known as Art Factory. Juan, whom I consider not only a friend and fellow photographer but a brother, joined me on this incredible journey. His unwavering dedication to his craft helped us embark on this creative endeavor. With a shared vision to create a space where photographers could connect, grow, and create freely, our path became clearer, and the load became lighter.
As we continued to develop Art Factory, we realized that we needed a bigger team and additional expertise to bring our collective vision to life. That’s when a stranger from Instagram appeared, reaching out with a question about a story layout I made one day. Little did I know that this chance encounter would lead me to Florida, where I connected with Gabriel and his wonderful family. Gabriel’s skills in logo design, brand marketing, and creative direction were exactly what we needed to breathe life into our vision. With his invaluable contributions, Art Factory began to take shape.
But we understood that our team needed a woman’s touch—an individual who could bring a unique perspective and attention to detail to our creative process. It was during a photoshoot that I had the pleasure of meeting Riya. Her unwavering passion for design and connection, her innate ability to infuse love into her work aligned seamlessly with the goals of Art Factory. We quickly realized that she was the missing piece of the puzzle. From that point on, Riya played a pivotal role in helping us scout models, design captivating sets, and keep us grounded with her organizational skills. With her on board, our team felt complete, and Art Factory is beginning to soar to new heights.
The four of us—Juan, Gabriel, Riya, and myself—are filled with excitement as we move forward with Art Factory. Juan’s exceptional creativity in curating sets for our workshops, Gabriel’s incredible brand marketing skills that enable us to reach a wider audience, and Riya’s meticulous planning and design expertise have come together harmoniously. Together, we strive to provide a space that each individual can call home, a sanctuary where they can find solace, growth, and connection. Art Factory not only nurtures creativity but also fosters a sense of family among fellow photographers and enthusiasts.
As I reflect on the journey that has brought us to this point, I am filled with immense gratitude. Our paths intertwined in the most unexpected ways, and the contributions of Juan, Gabriel, and Riya have been invaluable. They have helped shape Art Factory into a place where dreams can thrive, where stories can be told, and where artists can find their voice.
With hearts overflowing with thankfulness, we look to the future, brimming with anticipation for what lies ahead. The Art Factory community continues to grow, empowering individuals to unleash their creative potential, form lifelong connections, and make a lasting impact through their art. As we navigate this beautiful journey together, we cherish the bonds we have forged and remain eternally grateful for the privilege of creating a space where dreams can take flight.
Pricing:
- Workshops are priced at $260
- Meet-ups are $0-25
- Magazine/Coffee Book $50
- Brand Content Varies per project
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theartfty.com
- Instagram: @_rtworow
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYfH5r6ZMoFcMBZvzfylxHw
- Other: @THEARTFTY (TikTok, Instagram, YouTube)
