Exploring the Creative Journey with Paloma McMurtry
In the bustling realm of artistic exploration, Paloma McMurtry stands out as a vibrant and multidimensional force. Hailing from Cherry Hill, New Jersey, Paloma, whose pronouns are she/her, navigates her creative path with a blend of boldness and elegance, drawing inspiration from her biracial heritage, her experiences, and the diverse tapestry of Philadelphia. A Film and Animation major at the University of the Arts, Paloma's journey into the world of art was sparked by familial influence and nurtured by her own passion and curiosity.
Paloma Mcmurtry
Reflecting on her artistic genesis, Paloma shares, "As a younger sister, I had to copy everything my older sister did. So when she got into drawing I naturally had to as well." This initial emulation evolved into a genuine love for drawing and painting, which she cultivated alongside her academic pursuits. Despite initially studying pre-law, Paloma's mother encouraged her to follow her artistic inclinations, leading her to make the bold decision to transfer to the University of the Arts. "It was definitely a bold decision," she reflects, "but I’m very happy with the path I chose."
Paloma's artistic journey is deeply intertwined with her love for Philadelphia, a city she describes as a melting pot of cultures and identities. Beyond its artistic offerings, she finds herself drawn to the city's culinary landscape, which she considers among the best in the world. "Philadelphia is such a melting pot of cultures and identities," she enthuses, "and all of this diversity has truly made some of the most magical food I’ve ever tasted." For Paloma, this diversity fuels her creativity, inspiring her to push boundaries and explore new artistic horizons.
The city of Philadelphia serves as more than just a backdrop for Paloma's creative endeavors; it is a wellspring of inspiration. "This city is so historical," she observes, "it’s so easy to find yourself immersed in all it has to offer." From its rich architectural heritage to its vibrant street art scene, Philadelphia provides Paloma with a canvas upon which to weave her artistic tapestry.
Yet, amidst the excitement of artistic exploration, Paloma grapples with the challenge of finding her niche. "I'm finding it difficult to find my niche," she admits. "To me, I find my artistic process a bit chaotic, which isn't necessarily a bad thing, but I’d benefit from some mental organization." Despite this challenge, Paloma embraces the notion that obstacles are integral to growth. "I think life is full of obstacles, as it should be," she reflects. "Obstacles make us smarter, adaptable, more resilient, and patient. My dad taught me that anything worth having will never come quick or easy.”
When asked to describe her current artistic expression, Paloma chooses three words: bold, dark, elegant. This juxtaposition of elements reflects her penchant for experimentation and her willingness to explore the complexities of the human experience.
Incorporating principles of inclusion into her art is paramount for Paloma. "It’s important that I’m inclusive while creating my art because histories always involve other groups of people," she explains. Whether depicting historical narratives or exploring contemporary themes, Paloma strives to represent the diverse tapestry of human experiences with authenticity and empathy.
Looking to the future, Paloma's horizon expands beyond the borders of Philadelphia as she prepares to embark on a new chapter in Spain. "I’m moving back to Europe to continue my career in the arts," she reveals. "I want to use this opportunity to calm my mind and reorganize my art process." Amidst the hustle and bustle of East Coast life, Paloma seeks solace and inspiration in the serene landscapes of her family’s homeland.
For those looking to follow Paloma's artistic journey, she invites them to connect with her on Instagram @palomathearts and explore her portfolio on her website palomathe.art. As she prepares to chart new creative territories, Paloma remains steadfast in her commitment to authenticity, inclusion, and artistic excellence.
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