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

Hi Zarita, why did you pursue a creative career?
I don’t think I necessarily chose this specific path; I think our environment (the state of the world) creates a space for people to want to express themselves. The way through which they do so can either be influenced, or innate. Mine was influenced by my father who documents our family’s life through photography, mixed with his natural ability to care and appreciate humanity. He influenced all that I am and how I create.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Becoming a Photographer was the easy part, turning myself into a more introspective Artist was not. Creating a version of Art that is true to self demands setting boundaries (to yourself and others), research, declining opportunities that do not feel respectful (to the Art or the Artist) and so much more.

I’m still working on overcoming those challenges by believing that what truly belongs to me, will find me, and that gives me a lot of time to further develop my sense of self expression which is very important. I’ve realized that the Art Industry is business as usual, which is fine but this can be so disheartening at times when they focus on short-handing an Artist. However, I’ve had lovely experiences with Black Curators, so I know there are opportunities that can be stress-free.

When people look at my work, I want it to stir anger and revolt inside them. To seek how to be a better person, a fighter and to find community and most importantly to go take back ‘Home’, because we’ve all been displaced, some way or another.

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 want dedicate my shoutout to the Book Club that a few friends and I are a part of. The books we’ve read and discussed have heavily inspired my train of thought in recreating a deeper version of the Artist I am.

Website: https://zaritazevallos.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/zaritazevallos

Twitter: https://twitter.com/zaritazevallos

Image Credits
Photographer: Zarita Zevallos IG: @ZaritaZevallos

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