Girl on Fire II
For artistEd Urena, art is a form of therapy.
The solace is welcome given his conditions.
Although art’s impact on his life has been tremendous, Urena isn’t a full-time artist.
“Girl on Fire II”
Art will always be a side hustle, whether or not it becomes a career in the future.
Continue reading for My Modern Met’s exclusive interview with Ed Urena.
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How did your painting journey begin?
“34”
My interest in painting began at a very young age.
I was born near-sighted and struggled with seeing my surroundings, with a few facial scars to prove it.
To me it felt like he was doing magic and I wanted to do the same.
“Barry”
In kindergarten my teacher always left the arts & crafts corner available for me during playtime.
Eventually I moved back to NYC where I completed high school and my first year of college.
This is when I truly understood what painting does for me.
“Melodrama”
This was the first time my art felt truly appreciated, the way I appreciated Bob Ross work.
Barry
Did you paint professionally before becoming partially blind?
I started losing my eyesight at the age of 28, but didnt realize it at first.
“This is America”
I had saved money that I made off of one painting to pay for Lasik surgery.
How did painting change your life?
Painting helped, and still helps, with processing things I had yet to fully understand.
What is your creative process?
I often begin my process by doing a rough sketch of what Im going to paint.
I repeat this step while the image comes together.
Melodrama
As a partially blind artist, what are the biggest challenges for you?
Being an artist in a heavily capitalistic society often means having to prioritize work/money over my art.
This can leave little time, funds, and energy to feel inspired or be disciplined.
Is there a particular painting you’re particularly proud of?
My paintingThis is Americaof Donald Glover is my most life-changing painting that Im the most proud of.
This was my first time working with oil after years of feeling intimidated by it.
This is America
What do you hope people will take away from your art?
I feel a great amount of joy when someone feels a connection to my art, at any level.
Its even more satisfying when Im told that my work inspires others to begin their artistic journey.
Ive appreciated Van Goghs work since I was a teenager and later began to identify with his life story.
It wasnt until after I did the same that I learned about the story behind this painting.
