Meet Naomi Genova | Naomi Genova | Artist & Digital Media Strategist

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

Hi Naomi, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
The biggest affirmation I’ve come across is from St. Pope John Paul II in his “Letter to Artists.” He was gifted in many ways, particularly in knowing how to speak to young people and artists. I myself, a young person and an aspiring artist were inspired by his words, “Not all are called to be artists in the specific sense of the term. Yet, as Genesis has it, all men and women are entrusted with the task of crafting their own life: in a certain sense, they are to make of it a work of art, a masterpiece.” Life is meant to be made into a work of art, “a masterpiece.” As a practicing Catholic, I find it hard to blend both the inspiring non-secular teachings into this very secular world that still brings in rich colors of beauty. St. Pope John Paul II helps in bridging the creative spirit to be seen in the ordinary world that I interact. Art and creativity don’t always have to be a heavily spiritual experience for everyone, but it’s important to understand what your craft can truly awaken inside of you. In turn, what your art can awaken in others, and meet them where they are in life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I feel that my art is a reflection of my interior life, so I usually just paint or make art when I’m inspired because when I’m the opposite, it’s harder to be in a creative state. Studying digital media for the past 3 years at the University of Houston has definitely helped me refine my skills and my hobbies. Since it’s an umbrella of creative opportunities that blend marketing, art, and business, it’s helped me understand how to better market myself as an artist. It’s also definitely helped me understand that my hobbies can be of use in my professional career, and not just remain a fun thing to do. Being on this path right now, I’m inspired to inspire other young artists that have or are currently tackling the difficult choice of dropping their hobby for a more “stable future,” as I’ve often heard growing up. Your desire to make use of your artistic talent isn’t only limited to traditional mediums. The world is changing, so carve your own path; it’s surprisingly possible nowadays. I feel that it was such a blessing finding this program because my senior in high school self would have dropped being creative all for financial stability. Finding a great balance in feeding my artistic desire and understanding the truths about how the world works is an art form in it itself. You just gotta keep at it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’d start our week off by getting Dutch Bros coffee, then heading to the Menil Collection on Montrose for an almost full day of immersing ourselves in the art gallery. That area is so calming and such a cute spot for catching up because they have plenty of lawn space just to walk around or even have a picnic. Then once we get hungry, we’d make our way to Chinatown and grab food and boba at the Bellaire food street (food itinerary heavily depends on our moods on the day). The next day, I’d take them to the Glassell School of Art right next to our Museum of Fine Arts Houston. Just to see the skyline from a farther and less crowded view on top of the school roof, then if it’s a Thursday, we’d make a day out of visiting the MFAH museum since it is free all day. I’d also let them visit the Campus Newman Center and let them meet some of my friends at my Catholic Student Organization. There’s usually something fun happening in that building. Then, again, once we get hungry, main campus isn’t too far from Pinkerton’s BBQ, which is (in my most humble opinion) the best Texas BBQ in Houston. I’m not one to explore the city all week because of the heat and gas prices.. but I’m a sucker for cute coffee shops and specialty iced lattes with special syrups made in house… So we’d probably spend our time there catching up some more or just painting our stresses away.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give proper recognition to a collective group of people. Growing up in my Catholic youth group, (Missionary Families of Christ – Youth) I’ve encountered walking inspirations. Not only in their craft, but the way they live their life unapologetically being themselves. Especially interacting with them through our creativity and ideas. As well as, my campus Catholic Student Organization at the University of Houston. I’d like to give a special shoutout to Claire and Father Charlie because their guidance has undoubtedly influenced my pursuit of a creative career, while still helping me focus on the true joys of life.

Website: https://naomigenova.myportfolio.com/about-me

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omaigosh19/