Welcome to Part 1 of an impromptu interview series where we dive into Ruben's creative journey and the process behind his work. In this blog we share insights on how each piece comes to life—from initial inspiration to the moment when a piece feels complete.
My first memory of creating art was drawing a small face on a piece of paper. I must have been very young, maybe around three or four. My mom’s reaction to that drawing was so positive that it stuck with me, and from then on, I never stopped creating. Even while doing other things in life, I always knew art was what I truly wanted.
The inspiration for my art varies. Sometimes, I'll see something that catches my eye and sparks an idea—not always a clear image, but a feeling of what I want to create. The piece I’m working on now began with a single board that I cut in a way that transformed it. I often blend marine and floral elements—what I like to call “sea flowers.” The name for a piece usually comes later, once I’ve seen it all come together.
I know a piece is finished when it closely matches what I envisioned, even if that image is a bit abstract. It’s an instinctive, intuitive process, balancing not overworking it while also making sure it doesn’t feel incomplete. It’s something I’ve learned over time; when it feels right, I know it’s done.
If creating is something you feel passionate about, pursue it and don’t give up, even if others discourage you. Yes, competition is global now, but creativity is still uniquely human. Stay open to where your journey takes you—it might not be what you initially imagined, but that’s all part of the process.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive deeper into the role of art in the community and what Ruben hopes people take away from the art.