Latin for Glory is an independent artist from Miami, FL. Her main body of work focuses on the Bull - an animal that historically represents power, perseverance, and prosperity. The subject matter was originally inspired by her star sign, Taurus, and further developed into a lifestyle during her time living in Madrid, Spain. Glory aims to harness the significance of the Bull and utilize its spirit in her art and designs to motivate others to pursue their dreams without fear. Although she works across different disciplines and with a variety of mediums, Glory is most known for her realistic color pencil drawings on paper.

Latin for Glory recently presented the fine-art series Seven Fires in the Miami Design District. Her showings include a pop-up show at Wirtz Gallery, group exhibition for Bombay Sapphire Artisan Series in N’Namdi Gallery, group show at Adelmo Gallery, and an Art Basel presentation in Arthood 56. In addition to her fine art, Latin for Glory has performed live art at private events for clients including H&M, Saks Fifth Avenue, Jo Malone, Macys, and Chevrolet.

She is currently working on the continued development of the collection Elementa. The collection explores six elements - fire, light, water, earth, metal, air – and their symbolic, emotional, and physical connections to our lives. As seen with the first presentation Seven Fires, there will be individual exhibitions, installations and activation for each of the elements throughout Miami.

Born and Raised or Expat?
Born and raised in Miami
What led you to choose your current profession? And, what steps did you take to get there?
My life has always been dedicated to art in some way. As a child, I spent my free time drawing, painting, studying piano, or practicing ballet. At the age of 15, my parents took me to Europe where I fell in love with buildings – a trip that led me to pursuing architecture in college at the University of Miami. However, after the second year, I transferred into the interior design program at the University of Florida. Upon graduating, I worked as a professional interior designer and project manager for a couple of years.
An opportunity presented itself as Press Coordinator for a luxury Italian footwear brand, but eventually left and bought a one-way ticket to Madrid where I spent a year in Spain free-lancing as Latin for Glory, working on the Running of the Bulls art series, and travelling. This was a pivotal stage in my career, because as I continued drawing the series, I adopted the Bull as my emblem; it became a part of who I was. Moving back to Miami, I needed a stable source of income and started working as marketing coordinator for an interior design firm.
During the three years in that role I continued to work on my art, creating commission pieces for clients and exhibiting my art in group shows. Because of constraints, I kept having to put my projects on hold or delay deadlines. I was burdened with the fact that I was spending my time, effort, and talent to help another person’s career advance and sacrifice mine.
I started working extra hours to save money, looking for art studios, updating my website and portfolio, and setting my intentions towards freedom. With frustrations and un-fulfillment in the work place becoming too much to bear, I woke up one day and felt it was now or never. What was I even waiting for? I either give up being half an artist or conquer my fears and take the risk.
So I quit. I now live a life I’m proud of and commit all my days to my true calling – art and design. Since that moment, everything in life has fallen into place and new opportunities have risen. It’s been a challenging journey with tough lessons learned, but all of it has been worth it! All the roadblocks, tears, pain and have led me to where I am now and I have never felt happier.

“Memory Throne”, project in collaboration with the Miami Marine StadiumSeven Fires, solo art exhibition — *“Memory Throne”, project in collaboration with the Miami Marine Stadium*
*Seven Fires, solo art exhibition*

3. What does your Day-to-Day routine look like?

I begin every morning with gratitude and setting intentions for the day – it is a practice that has brought a lot of positivity and direction in my day to day life. After light yoga and breakfast, its straight to the studio where I spend anywhere between 7 to 12 hours creating art and running my business. Being an independent artist is a seven day a week job, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

As of right now, I am a one-woman show so my responsibilities vary from marketing myself, managing projects, planning shows, meeting with clients, drawing and painting. I will be growing my team soon so I can focus mainly on producing artwork. As an artist, however, my day to day is always changing. I often have projects, such as murals and installations, that take me off-site for days and weeks at a time. I also go on a weekly basis to providers such as framers and print makers to approve items before sending to clients.

*Creating mural for Climate Change Hackathon in Miami Gardens*

Physical activity is essential to my overall well-being, so I spend at least an hour a day exercising - whether it’s taking a group class, running, or working out in the gym. It helps with focus, productivity, and sleep. My nights, both during the week and weekend, are normally very active. I make it a point to support those that support me, so I love attending events, getting together with family and friends, and checking out new spots in town with my husband. Then it’s lights off for a good sleep into the next day.

Stepping into the Latin for Glory studio, Miami Design District

4. What is your favourite brunch spot, and why?

Zuma in Downtown - Japanese cuisine is amongst my favourite. They have an incredible brunch menu, as well as buffet-style offerings, and bottomless cocktails. The atmosphere is very chic, with the option to sit outside and enjoy views of the Miami River and Brickell. For a more traditional brunch, I love Greenstreet Café in Coconut Grove. I have been going there since I was a teenager and love their pancakes, drinks and outdoor setting. In addition, it’s the perfect spot for strolling the neighborhood after.

5. When you have guests, where in town do you like to take them for dinner?

I love taking guests around different neighborhoods in Miami for a variety of dining and entertainment options. My studio is located in the Miami Design District, where I invite guests to see what I am currently working on, and then walk around the beautiful streets to grab a bite. Swan is fabulous for drinks, and St. Roch Market has an amazing array of cuisine options, cocktails, and live music.

*Ramen from Yuzu in St. Roch Market, Miami Design District*

In Miami Beach, I rotate between Blue Ribbon Sushi, Barceloneta, Lucali, and Sardinia Enoteca – all different, yet incredible restaurants. If we’re in Brickell, my favourite restaurant is River Oyster Bar. It has an amazing menu, fresh oysters, and great happy hour. Then it’s off to Better Days for drinks - a spot that is more of a family than a bar for me. In Little Havana, my go-to is Lung Yai Tapas, which in my opinion is the best Thai restaurant in Miami. Then we hop around the different salsas bar down the street. In MiMo, I love dining at Ironside Kitchen then heading to The Anderson, another of my all-time favourite bars in Miami.

6. How has your city grown and changed since you’ve known it? Which changes did you like best? Why?

Miami is a completely different city now than what I had growing up! There has been extensive development occurring all over the map, which has paved the way for new businesses to open everywhere. With the increase in population, there is now a lot of variety in restaurants, shops, and activities. It’s improved the ability to explore the city in ways that weren’t possible before. One of the most positive changes is the huge increase in community engagement and local events that bring people together. This includes outdoor markets, art shows, local performances, and concerts.

7. What cool festivals/events, if any, happen in your city?

International Chocolate Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens in January – Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens is a special destination where you can truly enjoy Florida’s natural landscape of tropical plants, towering trees, and lakes. If you can plan your visit with the chocolate festival, even better. As the name suggests – it’s a great opportunity to curb your sweet tooth and try chocolates from around the world, as well as experience nature in Miami’s cooler climate.

Coconut Grove Arts Festival in February – This festival showcases visual and performing talent from South Florida and across the nation. It is also for a good cause: proceeds help fund local art programs, scholarships, and initiatives.
South Beach Food and Wine Festival in February – A fun outing on the beach to try a variety of local seafood restaurants, listen to live music, and drink with friends. Just be mindful it can get very hot and crowded during the day, so my tip is to go in the later afternoon.
Art Basel in December – This time of the year is referred to as Art Week as there are so many fairs and activities to enjoy in addition to Art Basel. I’ve made it a point to attend all the major fairs over the years, and my personal favorites are Art Miami, Design Miami, and Art Basel. The week gets hectic due to the crazy amounts of people, increase in traffic jams, and pile up of events around town, but I find the change of pace and focus on art (of course) very exciting. I always have a pop-up or Live Art show during Art Week so stay tuned for the details!

*Live art performance for private Art Basel event at the East Miami Hotel*

8. Where do you go to escape? How does this space bring you peace?

Nature is my greatest escape. An advantage of living in Miami is the consistent warm weather and proximity to the ocean. I find myself at true peace near the water so I enjoy activities such as paddle boarding around Sunset Harbour, taking my dog to water-front parks such as Kennedy Park in Coconut Grove, as well as running the Rickenbacker Causeway then unwinding on the beach in Virginia Key. I’ve recently started playing golf at Crandon in Key Biscayne, and although I’m no Tiger Woods, I enjoy the change in activity, peace and quiet, and beautiful water views.

I also love going to the different museums in Miami including the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, The Bass Museum of Art, I feel very much at peace and inspired when there is no one else around – normally early on a weekday - and I can escape in the art or science.

*View from within the Crandon golf course*

*Gulf Stream Aquarium at the Frost Museum of Science*

9. What’s a local brand in your area that we must know about?

Vice City Bean for coffee, Chef Creole for lunch, Cindy Lou’s Cookies for desert, and Concrete Brewery for a cold beer.

10. Where, why and when is your next adventure?

I will be going back to Paris this November. I am very excited for this trip since I haven’t returned to Europe since moving back to Miami in 2016. That city is very special to me for many reasons – it inspired my decision to study architecture, holds dear memories from my summer studies at Parsons, and is amongst my goals to exhibit there. I will be going to celebrate my anniversary, check out art galleries, and revisit my favourite landmarks.

11. Does Travel breed creativity?

I believe that being emerged in a different culture, unfamiliar environment, and meeting new people opens your mind and broadens your perspective. Traveling activates new thoughts, creates memories, and ultimately enhances innovation. You not only learn about new places and people, but also about yourself. I am very thankful to have traveled both near and far – especially during my upbringing going between Miami and Santo Domingo yearly to visit my family. Traveling has inspired a lot of my artwork – it’s provided me the freedom and space to think outside of everyday life and indulge in curiosities, experiences, and ideas.

12. A notable figure throughout history that has particularly brought you inspiration, and why?

The first figure that comes to mind is the late American artist, Georgia O’Keeffe. She played such an important role in art with contributions to modernism and avant-garde movement in the early/mid 1900s. O’Keeffe was recognized as one of America’s best artist and found success within a male-dominant industry. As a female artist myself, I aspire to reach her level of respect and ingenuity in the field. She painted objects such as buildings, flowers and skulls, in a way that brought them to life and produced an emotional response in viewers – an element that I share in my own body of work. In addition to her art, I have always found her lifestyle to be inspiring. Everything about her, including personal style, wardrobe, décor, and demeanor was aligned with her essence. Evident in her writings and quotes, O’Keeffe was a strong woman, passionate about her craft, and lived a life dedicated to what she loved.

13. As for connecting the mind, body and soul, what do you do to promote self-love?

Self-love starts with being aware of our needs, fostering healthy thoughts and taking-action to nurture ourselves. For me, self-love stems from a grateful mindset and positive thinking. It is about respecting myself and making the time and space to fulfill my needs whether it be praying/meditating, reading an inspiring book, spending time with family and friends, or simply resting and doing nothing. I take exercise and beauty routines seriously, knowing that my body needs attention and in turn produces healthy thoughts and feelings. If I am ever feeling disconnected, I simply go outdoors and let nature do the healing for me. Most importantly, creating artwork aligns my mind, body, and soul because I am serving my greater purpose doing so. Journaling and sketching are practices that help align mind, body, and soul. Yoga practice at sundown to clear the mind and feed the body

14. Are there any philanthropic programmes or projects that you’re passionate about or would like to shed some light on?

Style Saves is a local organization that helps provide underprivileged students across Florida with uniforms, shoes, backpacks, school supplies, and more. Through various events and initiatives, it helps families and students in need with the school year, holidays and disaster relief.

15. Entrepreneurs, Tastemakers and Trailblazers, where do people like you hangout in your city?

The combination of a diversified entrepreneurial scene and spread out landscape makes it tricky to point out any centralized hang out spots. From my point of view, Miami Design District has brought in a unique crowd of tastemakers and trailblazers to enjoy new restaurants, bars, and weekly events. Co-working spaces have become very popular amongst tech-driven entrepreneurs for happy hours and networking events. Artist, like myself, spend a lot of time hanging out in our own studios and those of other artists.

16. What is the importance of global connection to you?

I was raised by parents that immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic. They taught both my brother and I to be proud of our roots, appreciate diversity, and see the entire world as an opportunity. This aspect in life has always motivated me to share my work and collaborate internationally. The concept of global connection is also integral to my art - The Bull is a universal symbol that holds its positive meaning despite differences in cultures, religions, and countries. The demonstrates the fundamental unity in humanity. It’s important that as individuals and as a society that we continue to connect and share ideas that have the potential to improve lives and create a better future.

*“De Madrid al Cielo”, Color pencil on paper, commission piece inspired by Spain and travel around the world*

17. Give a shout-out to someone in your city that is doing groundbreaking things, and what is it that makes them a trailblazer?

I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know Andrew Quarrie. I admire him for his motivation, innovation, and the positive impact he is making through all his endeavors. Andrew is the founder of Urbanism Summit – a platform that connects professionals across different disciplines to help solve inefficiencies in urbanization. As a Miami native, this initiative is vital and can provide solutions to current issues, as well as the future development of the built environment. By creating this platform, he is also supporting local talent and businesses.

18. Advice for budding entrepreneurs?

Entrepreneurship is rewarding but comes with its unique set of challenges. The freedom of pursuing your own business comes at the expense of sacrifices, financial hardships, and emotional, mental, physical road blocks. It is also important to note, that innovation is great, but execution is everything.

Find your “why”. Why are you becoming an entrepreneur to begin with? I found this reason to be crucial during the difficult times in my career. My “why” has kept me motivated and deterred me from giving up when things go wrong. It is also essential to keeping your mind, body, and soul aligned with the work you are doing.
Create a business plan. Do your homework, reach out to mentors, research from credible sources and put together the road map for success. This doesn’t mean that you won’t face obstacles or won’t need to revise the business plan down the road, but it will certainly help you make the best decisions to stay on track.
Go for it. Research, preparation, and organization are keys to success. However, it’s important to not sit around and wait for the answers to fall from heaven, or for the magical investor to come by, or for your schedule to clear up itself up. Do it. You are the manager of your own life so it’s up to you to find the opportunities, make the time, do the hard work, and get it going. Determine the big goals, and start working on increment milestones that will get you there at a sustainable pace. If this is something you are passionate about pursuing, the sacrifices and necessary changes along the way will be worth it.

19. We’re living in a world where our attention to new innovation doesn’t seem to have longevity, how do you find your inspiration to make new waves with long-term prosperity?

I feel that a lot of new innovations lack longevity because they don’t solve real issues or can’t connect to the human spirit - or a combination of both. Our society is flooded with superficiality and as a result people in general are feeling lost, disconnected, and unfilled. For example, society has become reliable on social media platforms and apps to make connections and exchange information. Despite the value these platforms provide, they can’t create personal, long-lasting relationships for us, nor fulfill our purpose in life. My goal is to create work with deep meaning. What I do goes beyond making art - I offer an experience, an opportunity for viewers to reconnect with their inner power, become the inspiration they seek, and activate their own potential. These aspects in my work will never expire, or go “out of style” because they are what make us human.

20. Tell us about what you are currently working on?

I am currently working on developing the art collection, Elementa. It is a collection that explores six elements – fire, light, water, earth, metal and air – through the mediums of drawing, painting, sculpture, and conversation. As seen with the recently presented Seven Fires, the elements will be individually showcased with their unique art series and experiences. I want viewers to be fully submersed in the emotional, physical, and symbolic properties each element embodies. In addition to the ongoing collection, I am working on commission pieces and have a couple of on-site paintings that will be starting soon.

*The making of “Ignis”, colour pencil on paper, presented at Seven Fires solo art exhibition in the Miami Design District*

21. People can often look at the end result of success and think that the journey has been easy. In your darkest moments, what was your motivation and inspiration to keep going, despite the obstacles and challenges you faced?

I love this question because it is the essence of what I want to communicate through my artwork. Life is not easy, and why should it be? Without failures, uncertainty, and rejection we can never truly know if we are on the right path to success. Challenges spark change, which is necessary for growth; My life has taught me that darkness holds as many truths as light, and it is important to embrace hardships because they can transform us into better versions of ourselves – making us wiser, stronger, and courageous.

The Bull in my work is a symbol of power, perseverance, and glory. It represents bravery and the ability to push forward regardless of tough circumstances. Focusing on my goals, finding inspiration in the Bull, and utilizing pain and fear as positive tools have allowed me to overcome obstacles and strive or success.

22. A book that impacted you?

The last book I read is The Universal Tone by Carlos Santana. It’s has been one of the most impactful books for me because of the parallels in our creative journey. Santana shares his life story - diving deep into how his spirituality healed him and supported the creativity that led to his successful career. It is a beautiful testimony of the importance of nurturing and aligning your mind, body, and soul with your big dreams. He shares difficult moments in his upbringing, failures in his career, and how he overcame it all.

I started to read the book during a turning point in my life in which I found myself unfulfilled, frustrated, and lost in respect to my career and the job I was currently at. It helped me reaffirm that I needed to overcome the fear of failure, take a risk, and dedicate myself fully to becoming an artist. Without the full-time commitment, Santana would have missed out on the concert that changed his life and career forever. A few months after reading that chapter in the book, I quit my job and everything in life started to fall into place. New opportunities presented, including my first solo art exhibition, Seven Fires, that I recently showcased in May.

Santana also urges the importance of staying true to your passion and focusing on your inner voice developing the message you want to share with the world. One of my favorite quotes from the book is “Who you are going to be decides what you’re going to do, and what you are going to do decides what you’re going to be.”

23. A quote or mantra that you live by?

“Greatness is not this wonderful, esoteric, elusive, God-like feature that only the special amongst us will ever taste. It’s something that truly exists in all of us.”

– Will Smith

24. Please share a playlist that embodies your work. What about this particular music brings you inspiration?

Music makes me feel alive and is such an important element in my overall being. My selections vary greatly depending on the task at hand and vibe for the day. Normally, my mornings start with smooth jazz like Sade’s “Cherish the Day” and “Sweetest Taboo”. I listen to a lot of Masego and SG Lewis as I get going in the studio. While I draw and paint, I shift between Classic Rock and Reggae genres for the most part. The combination of electric guitar, Caribbean beat, and rock and roll align with my spirit.

My City Series | Latin for Glory

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