Can you tell us about yourself and your journey as an artist?
I was born and raised in San Juan and earned a scholarship to study at Ringling College of Art and Design in Florida. After graduating, I was recruited to an award-winning animation and production company in NYC, where I worked my way up from intern to Creative Director. Today, I'm back in Puerto Rico working independently as Ocasio Pinta: a painter, designer, muralist, and creative director focused on Puerto Rican culture and community. My work spans homes, small businesses, municipalities, major brands like Nike, McDonald's, and Medalla Light, and cultural events like Toñita Fest, all with the goal of elevating lo nuestro.
My interview with The Freakin Rican, about my ARTISTIC journey, my years in NEW YORK, and how living in NYC changed how I SEE Puerto Rico.
You were raised in Puerto Rico, spent more than a decade in New York City, and now live in San Juan. How has that influenced your art?
When I was younger, I tried to make my work feel "universal" to appeal to an international audience. Living in NYC, and especially returning to Puerto Rico, helped me realize that the more specific and authentic my work is, the more powerful it becomes, and the more I enjoy making it. I started looking for the "deep cuts" of our culture that only boricuas recognize. Going from living in San Juan to being a minority on the mainland made me appreciate the cositas that make our culture unique.
After building a career in New York, what inspired you to return to Puerto Rico?
When my NYC job went remote during COVID, I realized I could have the career I wanted while living on the island I love. I was grateful to spend my twenties in NYC, but in my thirties I wanted to plant roots in Puerto Rico. After years as a Creative Director, I felt ready for more artistic freedom and ownership over my work. Going independent allowed me to focus on projects that directly serve Puerto Rico and our diaspora. We often talk about the "exodus of talent" leaving the island; I wanted to bring what I learned back hoWhen my NYC job went remote during COVID, I realized I could have the career I wanted while living on the island I love. I was grateful to spend my twenties in NYC, but in my thirties I wanted to plant roots in Puerto Rico. After years as a Creative Director, I felt ready for more artistic freedom and ownership over my work. Going independent allowed me to focus on projects that directly serve Puerto Rico and our diaspora. We often talk about the "exodus of talent" leaving the island; I wanted to bring what I learned back home.
You mention wanting people to "carry a piece of Puerto Rico" into their homes and communities. What does that mean?
As the world becomes increasingly corporatized and automated, people are craving meaning and humanity. So, if I can create something that helps you feel connected to where you come from... then I'm happy.
Your work often celebrates Puerto Rican culture.
Why is it important for you?
We all love Puerto Rican culture, but it's easy to take it for granted. That's why we need to preserve it, because culture is what creates community. I like to say: "Si la soledad mata, la comunidad salva."