We had the good fortune of connecting with Monique Salas and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Monique, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Ever since I was a little girl, I was very outspoken and artistic. I always wanted to be part of plays and create things. I think watching films that really brought me in touch with my emotions was something that inspired me. Watching films like The Color Purple and A River Runs Through It really made me think about how I view things and people, and I realized how big of an impact film can make on the world. I decided that I want to do whatever I can to make an impact for the better and help people’s voices be heard through art.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Growing up, I didn’t have a lot of experience in film. From an early age, my dad watched movies with me and introduced me to some of the most infamous films made thus far. I knew that it was something that I enjoyed watching. I always dreamed about being in a film or making them, but the dream didn’t start to become a reality until I entered college. I did a lot of theater in high school and was planning on pursuing it in college, but the program ended, so I chose to do film instead. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I quickly fell in love and realized that film had been something I’ve always been drawn to. I just didn’t think it was a possibility for someone like me to do. The film has taught me a lot about myself and about how we think as people. I’ve learned so much about the story and about human emotions, things that intrigue others, and what really gets people’s attention. Much more goes into making a film than the picture on the scene, and I love every second of it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I went on camping trips with my family when I was young and have always loved being outdoors. one of my favorite hiking spots is in Boulder, so I would definitely take them hiking. We would most likely go out to eat at different places. There’s Zens sushi that I really like as well as some great pizzerias. I love food and especially dessert, so going to different ice cream shops like little man ice cream would be a must. Visiting the botanical gardens and maybe even taking a trip to Glenwood springs would be a fun time. Really being able to experience the beauty and nature that Colorado has to offer is something that I love so much about the state, so I would love to do that with my friends when they visit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family has been a huge inspiration to me ever since I was little. Being around love and support really helped me to be able to pursue my passion without really being worried about disappointing someone. My mother was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer when I was in high school. My mother is one of the strongest people I know, and she taught me that life is what I make out of it and that I should follow my passions. I started working at age 15 and haven’t stopped since. Making enough money to help not only myself but my family on top of going to school full time and now nearing my graduation date in May. I couldn’t have done it without my mom, dad, grandparents, and the rest of my family and friends that have supported me throughout my journey so far.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moe2448/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monique-s-29586491/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katie.moe.50/

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