Meet Cony Madariaga | Free Lance Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cony Madariaga and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cony, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
There are different avenues to do it, for me, I gradually shifted things in my life to pursue my art as a career, especially without having a formal art education I am currently in my first year of being a full-time artist, and there’s a lot to learn, and I wear a lot of different creative hats. My biggest advantage has been having the support from my family to follow my dreams. My thought process has been knowing what I want and gradually doing things in my life that will help me get there.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When people ask how long I’ve been an artist, I often say “almost forever.” My passion for art has been a constant presence in my life. During high school, I was fortunate to have the space and tools to explore, learn, and create, and I hold my art teachers in the highest regard for their support and inspiration.

My artistic journey has encompassed a wide range of styles, from abstract and nature-inspired works to representational pieces. As I’ve continued to explore and discover what brings me joy, I’ve gravitated more towards representational art, focusing on capturing the shared, everyday moments that evoke a sense of togetherness.

In 2018, nearly a decade after graduating high school and upon earning my Bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science, I made the decision to fully commit to my art. By 2019, I was thrilled to be accepted into my first exhibition—a moment that brought tears to my eyes and affirmed that I was on the right path. Since then, my journey has been filled with both triumphs and challenges. Over the past few years, I have exhibited my work more than 20 times and, in 2023, I was honored to receive the Delaware Division of the Arts Fellowship Award, followed by an artist residency at The Delaware Contemporary.

Currently, I am working as a full-time artist, teaching, curating, and wearing many other creative hats, which I truly enjoy. It’s important to acknowledge that this path hasn’t always been smooth. While I’ve had many opportunities and doors open for me, I’ve also faced my share of rejections. Trusting in the process and finding lessons in these experiences has been crucial to my growth

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting town for the week, I’d start by treating them to coffee at my favorite local spots, Brew Haha and Legal Grounds Café. If their visit coincides with the First Friday Art Loop, we’d spend the evening gallery hopping at Grace Gallery, Chris White Gallery, The Mezzanine, and The Sold Firm.

I’d make sure they experience the Delaware Art Museum and The Delaware Contemporary before they leave. To enjoy some fresh air, I’d suggest a stroll through Brandywine Park and along the Riverfront Boardwalk.

For dining, I’d recommend a few of my top spots: Riverfront Market for fresh fruits, salads, and tacos; Green Box for a refreshing smoothie; Del Pez for Agua Chile; and Catherine Rooney’s for their delicious Green Goddess Salad and sweet potatoe fries.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am always thankful to God for my gift and creativity, I don’t ever want to take it for granted. I am beyond thankful for my family, friends and community. In the Art world, my good friend and mentor JaQuanne Leroy has been fundamental in my growth and the way I show up for things. When I first wanted to do this ” art thing” JaQuanne was someone that to this day I can always reach out to for advice or just his overall opinions, he is a talented and intelligent being whom I am grateful to call my friend.

Website: https://www.conymadariaga.com

Instagram: Cony.madariaga

Image Credits
first 2 images(studio images) photograph by Denise Perez

4th picture, orange background with paintings sitting on the floor, photograph by Yonnie Mcfly