Today we’d like to introduce you to Serena Bautista.
Serena, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
Growing up, my Nana Lillie inspired my love for baking. I never thought I would be a full-time artist! Besides my high school’s curriculum for electives (ceramic and art), I had zero interest. But God!
In November 2018, I resigned from my job of three years at P.F. Chang’s. During this time, my relationship with Christ grew stronger. I learned to set aside personal time to pray and listen to the Holy Spirit. He directed me to anoint my hands with blessed oil. God told me he was placing a new gift inside of me, which was art. I was in shock, crying like a newborn baby! He also told me not to hold onto my paintings. Little did I know what he had in store for me!
Great, 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?
I believe anything worth having in life will not come easy. I also know that the struggles in life are meant to make me stronger. I remember the days I had to sleep in my car. Different roommates are kicking me out, being fired from jobs on my off day like Craig lol. Throughout it all, I thank God for keeping His hand over my life. It hasn’t been a smooth journey but my story isn’t over yet.
We’d love to hear more about your art.
I am a proud Afro-Latina. My father is from the Dominican Republic, Bani to be exact. Back in 1983, my father was recruited to play minor league baseball at the age of 17. Ten years later, I was born, his only child, his princesa. Thinking of ways to leave a historical legacy, I came up with the name Banileja Art.
I am an acrylic artist. I started out painting 90’s cartoons because that’s what I was naturally drawn to. Lately, I’ve been creating commission work. Overall, I love admiring God’s beautiful creation! That is what truly inspires me, from the clouds in the sky, trees, grass, lakes and beaches. I am proud to have amazing support from my family and friends who not only believed in me but were some of my first customers.
What sets me apart from other acrylic artists is how I create. I allow the Holy Spirit to guide me when I work on different paintings. Everything from what I sketch, how I mix my colors, adding in different mediums, and knowing when a painting is complete.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Being introduced to the owners of Humidor Lounge has been the proudest moment of my career so far. A friend of mine, Will Harris, seen some of my previous work and put together a meeting for me.
Contact Info:
- Email: banileja.art@gmail.com
- Instagram: ambitious.ree_
- Twitter: Banileja Art
Image Credit:
Shaquille Nelson
Dejah Wright
Suggest a story: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
