April Spotlight Feature: Alex G Zarate

Happy Monday, CAVARTists!  

We have a special treat today: our monthly Spotlight Post, featuring one of our very own CAVARTists, Alex G Zarate!  Read below to learn more about Alex 🎉👇

Name Alex Zarate

Artist Moniker Alex G Zarate

Branch of service Army

Short bio 

I’m Alex G Zarate, author, artist, and photographer, with a passion for storytelling and immortalizing life's most precious moments. With over 8 years of service in the Army, I draw upon my experiences to infuse depth and authenticity into my work. From the pages of my novels to the captured images using my camera, I aim to inspire and uplift, offering a fresh perspective, spreading positivity wherever I may go. Welcome to my world, where each creation serves as a window into the rich and diverse tapestry of life. Onwards! 

Website https://alexgzarate9.wixsite.com/alexgzarate

Social Media Handles alexgzarate

Title of piece Transcend

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Meaning behind piece

We must never be afraid of dreaming big. When we reach beyond the norm, our passions grow, our dreams carry us beyond the stars and we gain the power to transcend boundaries, making the impossible possible.

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What inspires you to create art? 

What inspires me to create art is the boundless beauty and wonder that exists in the world around us.

Whether it's the vibrant colors of a sunset, the intricate patterns of a snowflake, or the delicate dance of light and shadow on a forest floor, I am constantly amazed by the richness and diversity of the world we live in. I believe that art has the power to capture and celebrate this beauty, allowing us to see the world in new and unexpected ways. Whether I'm writing a novel, taking photographs, or posting online, I am inspired by the simple act of creation and the endless possibilities it holds.

What part of your life has benefited the most from your creative pursuits? 

One of the aspects of my life that has benefited the most from my creative pursuits is my sense of fulfillment and purpose. Engaging in creative activities such as writing and photography allows me to express myself authentically and explore my thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a meaningful way. Through my creative endeavors, I have discovered new passions, honed my skills, and connected with like-minded individuals who share my love for art and storytelling. 

Moreover, the process of creating art has helped me navigate life's challenges, cope with stress, and find moments of joy and inspiration even in the midst of adversity. Overall, my creative pursuits have enriched my life in countless ways, bringing me a sense of fulfillment, connection, and personal growth that I am truly grateful for.

Is it important for you to challenge yourself in your art? Tell us why or why not! 

Yes, it is crucial for me to challenge myself in my art. Challenging myself pushes me to explore new ideas, techniques, and styles, which fosters growth and development as a creative. By stepping out of my comfort zone and taking on new challenges, I continuously expand my creative horizons, pushing the boundaries of what I thought was possible and discovering untapped potential within myself.

Moreover, overcoming challenges in my art not only enhances my skills but also builds resilience, perseverance, and confidence. It teaches me valuable lessons about problem-solving, adaptability, and the importance of resilience in the face of obstacles. Each challenge I encounter becomes an opportunity for learning and self-improvement, driving me to strive for excellence and reach new heights in my artistic journey.

Additionally, embracing challenges keeps my life dynamic and exciting, preventing stagnation and complacency. It fuels my passion and curiosity, motivating me to continually innovate and evolve. Ultimately, challenging myself in my art is not just about achieving mastery or recognition; it's about embracing the journey of growth, self-discovery, and personal fulfillment that comes with pursuing my creative passions to the fullest.

What is your process or ritual to get your creativity flowing? 

My process for igniting creativity involves several rituals that help me tap into my artistic flow. Firstly, I start by creating a conducive environment for creativity, which often involves organizing my workspace, setting the mood with inspiring music or lighting, and surrounding myself with visual stimuli like artwork or nature scenes. Creating a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing space primes my mind for creative expression.

Next, I engage in activities that stimulate my senses and spark inspiration. This might include going for a walk in nature, visiting an art gallery, or immersing myself in literature or music. By exposing myself to diverse experiences and stimuli, I open myself up to new ideas and perspectives that fuel my creativity.

Once I'm in the right mindset, I begin the process of brainstorming. This might involve jotting down ideas, sketching rough outlines or thumbnails, or engaging in freewriting exercises to explore different concepts and themes. I allow myself to brainstorm freely without judgment, embracing the creative flow and letting ideas flow naturally. After generating a pool of ideas, I select one that resonates with me and begin the process of creation.

Whether I'm writing or photographing, I approach the task with a spirit of curiosity, experimentation, and playfulness. I allow myself to take risks, make mistakes, and iterate on my work until I achieve a result that feels authentic and satisfying.

Throughout the creative process, I make time for breaks and self-care to prevent burnout and maintain mental and emotional well-being. I prioritize activities like meditation, exercise, and spending time with loved ones to recharge and replenish my creative energy.

Overall, my process for getting my creativity flowing involves cultivating an environment of inspiration, engaging in sensory experiences, embracing experimentation, and practicing self-care. By nurturing my creative spirit and fostering a sense of openness and curiosity, I'm able to channel my creativity into a meaningful and fulfilling artistic expression.

What does CAVARTS mean to you? 

To me, CAVARTS embodies the transformative power of creativity and the profound impact it can have on the lives of veterans. It's more than just an arts community; it's a sanctuary where veterans can find solace, camaraderie, and a renewed sense of purpose and belonging. CAVARTS provides a supportive space where veterans can express themselves freely through various artistic mediums, whether it's painting, writing, music, photography or any other form of creative expression.

For me, CAVARTS is a beacon of hope and healing, offering a lifeline to veterans struggling with invisible wounds. It's a place where veterans can channel their experiences, emotions, and memories into meaningful works of art, allowing them to process trauma, find catharsis, and reclaim their voices.

Through the shared experience of creating and sharing art, veterans forge deep connections with one another, fostering a sense of community and understanding that transcends words.

CAVARTS is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and strength of the veteran community. It's a reminder that, even in the darkest of times, there is light to be found in the power of artistic expression and the support of fellow veterans. CAVARTS is a lifeline, a refuge, and a source of inspiration for veterans on their journey toward healing and wholeness.

Our monthly theme for April is April Showers.  How will you be celebrating?

As we embrace the theme of April Showers this month, I'll be celebrating by immersing myself in the beauty of nature's rejuvenation. April showers bring forth new life and growth, symbolizing renewal and transformation. I plan to spend more time outdoors, embracing the rain-soaked landscapes and capturing the vibrant colors that emerge in its wake through my photography.

Additionally, I'll be channeling the energy of April showers into my creative endeavors, exploring how themes of growth, renewal, and resilience manifest in my writing and artwork. Whether it's through  crafting, poetry inspired by the rhythm of raindrops or incorporating the beauty of rain-kissed landscapes,   I'm excited to infuse my work with the spirit of April showers.

Moreover, I'll be reflecting on the significance of April showers in my own life journey, recognizing that  just like the rain nourishes the earth, challenges and setbacks can also foster personal growth and  transformation. I'll be focusing on cultivating a mindset of gratitude and resilience, embracing the lessons that each shower brings, and emerging stronger and more inspired than before.

Overall, I look forward to embracing the theme of April Showers as an opportunity for growth, creativity, and renewal in both my artistic pursuits and personal life.

What words of inspiration do you have for your fellow CAVARTists? 

To my fellow CAVARTists,

As we navigate our creative journeys together within the CAVARTS community, I'm continually inspired by the resilience, creativity, and camaraderie that define us. Each of us brings a unique perspective and set of experiences to the table, enriching our community and fostering a supportive environment where we can thrive.

In times of doubt or uncertainty, remember that your creativity is a powerful force that can uplift, heal, and inspire both yourself and others. Embrace the creative process as a form of self-expression and exploration, allowing yourself the freedom to experiment, make mistakes, and grow along the way.

Let us lean on one another for support, encouragement, and inspiration, celebrating each other's successes and offering a helping hand during challenging times. Together, we can harness the transformative power of the arts to find purpose, connection, and belonging in our lives.

So, fellow CAVARTists, keep creating, keep dreaming, and keep shining your light brightly for the world to see. Your creativity has the power to make a difference, both within our community and beyond.

Onwards! +