Today we’d like to introduce you to Socorro Rico.
Hi Socorro, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hola, My name is Socorro Rico (she/her), you may also call me by my nickname, Coco. I am one of five siblings all born in Los Angeles, CA and raised by parents born and raised in Mexico. Being a first generation American has come with its challenges of language, culture and tradition, but has it’s luxury of having language, culture, and tradition. I hope readers with similar backgrounds can relate with this complex statement, “No soy de aquí ni de allá” (Im not from here of there).
In my teen years I did start to think of what I would want to do “when I grew up”, Im thankful I had the privilege to decide that for myself. After high school I attended a community college back home in Visalia, CA. Those 4 years in that community college changed every direction I thought I would lead into. I began taking art courses as requirements to receive an AA degree. At the time I was looking into going towards a nursing degree. But as soon, I was attending art classes, and saw the activities and events the art department hosted, I was hooked by the art community on campus. I made long lasting friendships with professors and students. My experience, at the College of the Sequoias was the beginning of my artist journey through my printmaking art practice. My experience there was the pivoting point in my youth and adulthood.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
If you are a creative with an idea or a goal, there will be small, medium and big bumps on that road. Not just from learning about marketing yourself, collaborating, traveling, teaching or experimenting but from something as simple as learning about yourself: how you work, what your brand is and frequently questioning your journey as an artist.
Just know these bumps are normal. Think about all the people who have started a small business and had to close within a year. Many of them hit some big bumps, but take that experience onto the next project or vision. Being an artist is tough (mentally emotionally, and physically). I had to grow my inner voice to be my own supporter along with the support of others.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
For the last few years, Ive described myself as an artist. I used to describe myself as a printmaker while in school. Once I graduated, I transitioned to painting (something I didn’t study while in school). For a few years, I identified as a painter. Now, I dabble in ceramics. I still work with printmaking, and do paper-making collaborations with a colleague, Kelsey Pike. So, currently I describe myself broadly as an artist. A few years ago, I began taking stained glass workshops, led by another colleague of mine, Tara Tonsor. This style of imagery has impacted by painting style. In both shapes, color and texture. Ive been really enjoying it. In 2023, I was invited by the Nelson Museum of Art to exhibit in a group show. Being part of that project was a huge honor for me. One way that I see people recognizing my work especially within the previous exhibition at the Nelson, is my two-dimension style of drawing. My nature inspired images are “flat” and graphic. You can relate my drawing style in something you would find in a children’s book. Some elements that I use and will continue to use are thick outlines, bird heads, flowers, arch shapes, and hands. I enjoy repeating this elements in my work.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
For the last 9 years Ive been in Kansas City, I’ve seen how the art market has changed. Ive had the opportunity to do many things in the KC community; from doing small group shows, pop-up events, guest lecturer, teach as an adjunct professor, collaborator, graphic design and event organizer. I see myself getting more into commission and freelance work. Doing signage for local restaurants such as Bay Boy Sandwiches has been a fun creative exploration. I see Kansas City growing in its adult class offerings, and in having more accessible workshops and incorporating more artist elements in weddings, birthdays and work gatherings. Kansas City has always and will only continue its support of its local artists. I hope to continue to collaborate with other artists and participate in locally hosted events.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://socorrorico.wordpress.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socorroricos
- Other: https://Cherrypitcollective.com
