“I believe embracing authenticity and staying true to oneself is the key to overcoming adversity.”
In the heart of Houston, a vibrant city known for its rich cultural tapestry and boundless resilience, a new mural stands tall, radiating hope and positivity. This stunning artwork that Amigo Energy recently commissioned celebrates the essence of the Houston community, particularly the vibrant Hispanic culture that forms an integral part of its identity. As the mural project takes center stage, we have the pleasure of introducing you to one of its guiding lights, Elia Quiles.
Elia Quiles, co-founder and principal of UP Art Studio played a pivotal role in creating this mural. UP Art Studio is a creative place-making and public art firm on a mission to foster “Civic Pride through Civic Art.” With a wealth of experience in curating, creating and managing public art projects, Elia and her husband, Noah Quiles, the other half of this dynamic duo, are passionate about harnessing the power of art to uplift people, neighborhoods, and under served areas.
Let’s delve into a captivating conversation with Elia as she shares her insights, inspirations, and the driving force behind her dedication to artistic expression and community engagement.
Tell us what UP Art Studio is and why you started it.
UP Art Studio is a creative firm dedicated to public art and creative place-making. We work closely with government agencies, brands, and non-profits, acting as consultants and implementers of art projects. The idea behind UP Art Studio was to celebrate, educate, and inspire communities through art. Art uniquely ignites a sense of pride in people, especially when it is deeply rooted in their neighborhoods and speaks to their experiences.
UP Art Studio’s slogan is “Civic Pride through Civic Art.” Can you elaborate?
This is our guiding principle and aspiration. Art is a universal language that brings people together, and we particularly focus on underserved communities where art might not be as accessible. Street art, like murals, allows anyone and everyone to interact with and experience art, fostering a sense of belonging empowerment, and pride.
Can you discuss the collaborative process between UP Art Studio, Amigo Energy, and the artist?
When Amigo Energy shared its vision to create a public art piece that would positively contribute to the community, I donned my project management hat to help bring it to life. The search for the perfect wall location was essential, and my connection with Concept Neighborhood was serendipitous. Together, we openly discussed our goals, embracing the challenges along the way with unwavering commitment. The familiarity between Amigo Energy, UP Art Studio, and the artist fostered a comforting synergy, ensuring the mural would exude the positive Hispanic flair we had envisioned. The remarkable result stands as a powerful testament to Houston’s indomitable spirit.
Why was Second Ward chosen as the location for this mural?
Amigo Energy’s focus was to honor and celebrate the Hispanic community, and Second Ward truly stood out for its dedicated preservation of our cherished Hispanic culture. Despite the challenges of redevelopment over the years, Second Ward remains steadfast in preserving its identity. It was a natural match for Amigo Energy’s vision, allowing them to convey their powerful message.
Why do you choose to focus on murals? What do they represent to you and the community?
Murals are powerful visual storytelling mediums. My husband, Noah, has a personal connection to murals, as he used to be a graffiti vandal in a challenged area in Chicago. Growing up, the community-oriented murals of the Chicano movement he encountered inspired him to transition from a graffiti vandal to a street art advocate. Murals have the unique ability to transform spaces and inspire change. They allow communities to take ownership of their surroundings and express their cultural identity, turning mundane walls into colorful canvases that reflect their stories.
Our mural’s tagline is “Don’t let anything dim your light.” How does this resonate with you?
For me, this encapsulates the essence of resilience and the unwavering pursuit of dreams. Life is filled with obstacles, setbacks, and self-doubt that can cloud our vision. This powerful statement reminds us that external forces should never extinguish our inner brilliance. I personally don’t let judgments dim my light or allow anyone else to define my worth. I believe embracing authenticity and staying true to oneself is the key to overcoming adversity and thriving.
How does being a Hispanic immigrant shape your experience and journey in Houston?
Although I came to Houston when I was very young, I grew up in a traditional Mexican household. The cultural richness of my heritage has been an integral part of my experience in Houston. This city’s diverse and multicultural environment allows people from all backgrounds to thrive and contribute to its growth. Houston’s acceptance of cultural diversity is a beautiful aspect that I cherish. Being an immigrant taught me to take pride in my roots and to be unapologetically myself.
What impact do you hope this mural and local art projects will have on Houston?
The impact of art, especially murals, on a community is immeasurable. Art brings joy, inspiration, and a sense of connection. I hope these art pieces will continue to spark joy in the hearts of Houstonians, even if it’s just for a brief moment during their daily routines. Art has the power to brighten someone’s day and evoke positive emotions. By nurturing an appreciation for art, I believe we can collectively uplift our community.
How can individuals and organizations get involved and support UP Art Studio’s ongoing efforts?
We welcome everyone to visit our website and follow us on social media to stay updated on our projects and events. For those interested in supporting our efforts, we are always on the lookout for sponsors and wall owners for our “Big Walls Big Dreams” mural festivals and other initiatives. Your support helps us continue realizing our dreams and implementing art projects that have a lasting impact on communities.
Illuminating Horizons: The Power of Art & Unwavering Determination
Our enlightening conversation with Elia Quiles not only left us inspired but also served as a powerful reminder of how not to let anything dim our light. Her unwavering passion for public art and her relentless commitment to uplifting communities through creative expression are a true testament to the strength and determination of Houstonians.
The mural UP Art Studio co-created with Amigo Energy is a beacon of hope, radiating positivity and resilience to all who encounter it. As we embrace the message of “Don’t let anything dim your light,” Elia’s ongoing efforts become a shining example of how our unique brilliance can guide us through life’s journey, overcoming challenges and illuminating the world around us.
Stay tuned for our next spotlight as we continue to celebrate Houston individuals who are making a difference through their creativity and resilience. Together, we can illuminate the world with our light and inspire others to do the same.