Daily Inspiration: Meet Mauricio Zuniga

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mauricio Zuniga.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I came to Kansas City in 1998 from Chicago. I have always been interested in art but I did not begin painting until I arrived in Kansas City. At the time, there wasn’t an active art scene. However, as the art community grew I became more involved in the arts. Not only did I begin painting more frequently, I volunteered with the Kansas City Art Council helping them identify local artists to showcase in their Now Showing program. I also served as curator of the art exhibitions during the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Fiesta Kansas City. My volunteer work introduced me to many different people and I was able to make connections through my work. Along the way, I found places to display my own art including venues which were part of the Now Showing program, The Late Show, Brandon Jacob and the Grand Gallery. In 2015 I was awarded the ArtsKC Virtuoso Award. I have mostly worked independently to market my art and will take any opportunity that comes my way. My attitude is that no opportunity is a bad opportunity. I am willing to display my work anywhere. For instance, I am currently the featured artist at Victor’s Upholstery on Gillham and I’m currently displaying my work at Truman Hospital.

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?
Yes, I would have to say that it has been a smooth road. I believe it’s mostly due to my positive attitude. When I am turned down, I just keep going and I think the next opportunity will be the best opportunity.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I combine two styles of painting, cubism and surrealism. Most of my artwork is heavily texturized. I want people to not only experience it visually but I want them to touch my paintings. I believe this is what sets me apart from most artists. When I have a show, I frequently like to speak to people who get really close to the painting and invite them to touch it. Most people are very surprised as if they don’t believe me. However, I want my paintings to live on more than one level.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I do consider myself a risk taker in the sense that I’m not afraid of failure or rejection. When I get rejected, it just energizes me and gets me ready for the next challenge. If I’m in a new city, I frequently visit galleries to show them my work. I take a chance that they might be interested in showing my work. I take every opportunity to show my work.

Pricing:

• The prices on my artwork range from $150 to $1000

Contact Info:

• Email: contact@mozuniga.com
• Website: www.mozuniga.com
• Instagram: @mozuniga_art
• Facebook: Mozuniga.art
• Other: Pinterest: MoZuniga_art