Today we’d like to introduce you to Veronica Saenz.
Hi Veronica, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My art journey itself began when I was in kindergarten. I distinctly remember being in art class and it was my turn to paint on the large canvas. I just felt so drawn to it (no pun intended) and I loved everything about it, the smell the colors and to seal the deal I remember my art teacher Ms. Santana saying, “wow you’re going to be an artist.” after that I lived it out.
I learned from my older brother, through books and then eventually went to school for it. I didn’t start doing weddings until a relative of mine was getting married and my husband suggested I do something like that. after that I just really enjoyed the experience and loved having people experience the art-making process in real time and have a new appreciation for it.
On a personal level, I love all forms of art mediums. from printmaking, drawing, sculpture, crochet. there’s something relaxing and fulfilling about creating something that reflects aspects of yourself and bringing it into the world. not only that but the connection you build with others who may see parts of themselves or their interests in the work.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I’ve always been the type of person to take the “safe’ road so in some ways it has been a smooth road, but life also has a way of challenging you. My biggest challenge so far was school and then my career path. I went to community college first and then transferred to university for my associates. I paid completely out of pocket. Once I transferred to university the only financial aid I got was from financial aid and grants from the school for my academic standing, no loans, or scholarships. there were days where I didn’t have enough funds to eat because I had a payment coming up.
Another rough patch I had was a few years after graduating, I decided to become an art teacher as my career. I thought this was the safest path to teach creativity rather than do it. but it wasn’t what I expected, and my mental health took a toll, and I took a break from it.
Someone challenged me about becoming a full-time artist, asking why I didn’t do it, if people liked my work, if people pay for my work, then why not? and I didn’t have an answer, except ‘I just didn’t see myself doing it’. But realized I was limiting myself. So, I took a shot at doing it and I have been enjoying the journey so far!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a portrait and landscape painter specializing in acrylic and watercolor, best known for my live event paintings. Through live wedding painting, commissioned portraits, and landscapes, I create artwork that is rooted in atmosphere, personality, intention and meaning.
I take in the inspiration behind the scenes, like the aesthetic of a space, the emotions, the energy between people, the color palette, and the small details that give a moment its personality. To me every brushstroke, color choice, and compositional decision is intentional and contributes to the overall meaning the final piece carries.
I am most proud of the opportunity to bring fine art into spaces where people may not expect it and make it a part of a shared experience. Live painting allows guests to witness the creative process unfold in real time, creating a connection not only to the final artwork, but to the act of creating itself. I love being able to transform meaningful moments into heirloom pieces that feel personal and bring the memory of the day itself.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
The best thing about the art community is that we are all so supportive of each other. If you are a creative, you are automatically part of the community and all it takes is to just ask. Everyone in the art community is so willing to help out, give advice and network.
Pricing:
- 18 x 24 | $500 Live Event Painting: Up to 6 hours. Studio Touch-Ups: Up to 3 hours
- 24x 30 | $750 Live Event Painting: Up to 10 hours. Studio Touch-Ups: Up to 5 hours
- Guest Portraits $10/guest under 50 guests, $15/guest over 50 guests
Contact Info:
- Website: https://verotheartist.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/verotheartist
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/verotheartist
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@verotheartist
