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

Hi Veronica, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
While growing up, I had always loved art and was inspired by all mediums that surrounded me, especially film. I loved the vibrant feeling of seeing a character, or hearing a song that I really identified with. However, there was a lack of representation in the films and media I saw, and at a young age I knew I wanted to create a new narrative. I not only wanted to see more ethnically diverse stories of women, but I also longed to improve the way mental illness had been portrayed to audiences. Especially as a young, brown woman. I also chose to have a creative career for the feeling of being moved by a piece of art so strongly, that it feels like I’m the only one in the room with the art itself, the artist, and their journey together. I want to extend that feeling towards others, and spread the empowerment it brings through art of my own volition. I work to encourage others to truly connect with art, so much that we never feel alone, and that we always feel seen. I want to create emotional art that is not only healing for myself, but gives others a chance to address their feelings and to possibly heal themselves. 

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am an independent artist who creates in a variety of mediums. I graduated with a BFA in Film Production in August, and have since been growing my artistic career in photography and collage. I prefer to dabble in different mediums at once because I like exploring the various outlets one can portray and share emotion and trauma. An important process that I have when working on new projects, is to always include the audience in the early stages. For my past films and photo series, I have conducted many various interviews with different patrons for not only research and to make sure the piece is applicable to different demographics, but to begin the healing process for both myself, and the viewer.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Some of my favorite spots in Denver include the selection of museums, and wide range of food. My favorite eateries include, Avanti, Postinos, Anise Modern Vietnamese, and Charlie Browns Piano Bar. My favorite local shop of the Denver area is Ritualcravt and Goldmine Vintage.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I owe a generous shoutout to my Film professors who I worked with and learned from throughout my time at University of Colorado, Boulder. Part of being an artist and constantly expressing myself and emotions, stem from my battle with various mental illnesses. Not only have these professors inspired me and pushed me to create new and raw pieces influenced by my mental illnesses, but showed immense support and understanding throughout times of struggle. They created and maintained a safe space for underrepresented students like myself, to create and grow in. They have tremendously influenced and impacted my artistic career.

Website: http://veronica-mendoza.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/veryveronicaa
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-mendoza-3a8315152/
Other: https://vimeo.com/veronicadanielle

Image Credits
Pictured: Ryan Northrop and Josh Lew

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDenver is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.