Artist Spotlight: Ana Cabrera
The transformative power of creativity is vividly embodied in the work and life of Ana Cabrera, a Peruvian artist and art psychotherapist based in New York City. Her journey as an artist, intertwined with her personal struggles and experiences, has culminated in the creation of deeply symbolic and introspective art pieces that are as evocative as they are therapeutic.
Artwork by Ana Cabrera
Art: A Lifeline in Times of Struggle
Ana found strength in the therapeutic power of art during a particularly difficult time in her life, marked by her father's illness and the onset of a global pandemic. A standout piece from this time, 'The Awakening,' has since become a powerful symbol of her ability to transmute personal pain into captivating artistry.
Identity and Commitment to Community
Art has always been an integral part of Ana's life. Her journey began under the tutelage of her mother, a fellow artist and art teacher. Further shaped by her academic studies in Fine Arts and Art Therapy, Ana's work reflects her strong Latin roots and her commitment to leveraging the power of art for healing and wellbeing, especially within her community.
The Unknown: A Journey Through Art
Ana's artistic style is a journey into the subconscious and the unknown. The images she creates are imbued with deep symbolism and archetypal themes, mirroring her journey of self-reflection, healing, and introspection. Ana considers her art a form of spiritual practice, revealing and healing aspects of her own psyche.
Future Plans: Cultivating Healing Through Creativity
Ana is driven by a mission to democratize access to art and creativity, particularly for marginalized and discriminated communities. One of her future projects is the creation of a Healing Art Object Book. This guide will offer a healing journey through images and symbols, promoting self-exploration and healing.
Art Mediums: Embracing the Fluidity of Art
Ana's approach to art is dynamic and fluid, allowing for the exploration of various mediums. Currently, she is drawn to the simplicity and precision of black ink on paper, creating intricate drawings and illustrations. Additionally, she finds therapeutic satisfaction in the process of carving linoleum for printmaking.
'The Awakening' by Ana Cabrera
'The Never Ending Cycle of Life' by Ana Cabrera
In Her Own Words: An Interview with Ana Cabrera
Reflecting on her background and art journey, Ana describes her work and process as fluid and evolving, shaped by her roots, her personal experiences, and her professional training as an art therapist. She speaks passionately about her commitment to her community and her mission to harness the therapeutic power of art to foster wellbeing and peace.
Ana acknowledges the challenges she faced in finding her identity as an artist, which led her to work with communities and individuals in need. She found her answer in art therapy, where she could utilize her artistic skills in a context that was both personally satisfying and socially beneficial.
She is currently drawn to the medium of drawing and illustrating, finding a calming satisfaction in the simplicity of black ink on paper. Additionally, she has been exploring linoleum printmaking, which she describes as therapeutic and satisfying.
Looking to the future, Ana aims to expand her work as an art therapist, with the goal of making art and creativity accessible to more people, especially those from marginalized and discriminated communities. One of her future projects includes the creation of a Healing Art Object Book, a guide aimed at facilitating healing and self-exploration through art.