Today we’d like to introduce you to Migdalia Quintana.
Hi Migdalia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My childhood passion was drawing. I was one of the most artistically gifted students at the elementary school I attended. That passion for art was always present; it never left me, even though I later studied marine biology and subsequently became a professional photographer. At the age of 46, I realized that I could not leave this world without beginning to prepare and develop myself for the purpose for which I was created.
I began by taking classes, learning from various painting instructors and artists of the brush. God does not bestow a talent without requiring something in return. Art is a means of expression, and God intended—and still desires—that I use it to reveal Himself to others through the gift He placed within me. Shortly after I began taking painting classes, I started exhibiting my paintings in public spaces, often alongside my writings. My goal was not to sell, but rather to share both forms of artistic expression. I held solo art exhibitions in Puerto Rico—where I was born and raised—then did the same in Chicago, Illinois, and have been doing so in Jacksonville since 2021. In Jacksonville, the experience was different; it evolved into a permanent exhibition within a commercial space—with the distinction that now, I do indeed have to sell my artwork in order to sustain it.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The path of my artistic career has not been easy. Although God has given me the gift, He also gave me a mind that needs to analyze and plan. I believe that the challenges shift as you develop as an artist. When you don’t face the pressure to sell—and are pursuing art as a hobby—I find that inspiration and ideas flow more freely; perhaps the greatest obstacle then becomes: “Where or how will I share my art?” or perhaps the challenges are financial.
Later, when you reach a stage like the one I currently am in, inspiration and creativity often have to be coaxed into existence. The problem is no longer “How?” but rather “What?”—”What am I going to paint or create?” You also encounter financial challenges you didn’t face before, particularly those involved in maintaining your workspace. At this juncture, discipline and the management of all resources—including time—become absolutely essential. And, as Pablo Picasso once said: “Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working!”
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an artist and the owner of my own art studio and gallery, located within a shopping center in Jacksonville, Florida. Although I work in various media, the one I enjoy most is painting—with acrylic being my preferred medium. Additionally, in recent years, I have learned and further developed my skills in various crafts, such as decoupage and painting on textiles and objects—including hats, handbags, bottles, earrings, and necklaces, among others.
While I paint universal themes, I believe I am best known in my local area for my paintings depicting Puerto Rico and for my sacred art. I believe that every artist—provided they paint from their inner self without attempting to please others by copying other styles—will naturally be unique and distinct from everyone else. I value what I do, but I do not believe in self-aggrandizement. I am simply the expression of what I was designed to manifest here on Earth. Our work will be the result of the Source to which we are connected.
What matters most to you? Why?
As a daughter of God, I believe that all human beings were designed with a divine purpose: that others might see the qualities of God through what we do. What matters most to me—both as a person and as an artist—is to leave an eternal imprint here on Earth that others can emulate through my artwork.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.migdaliaquintana.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artis.fl
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artis.fl
