When La Morena speaks, people listen — not just because of her artistic talent, but because she’s lived the struggle many creatives face and found a way to turn that pain into purpose. Her story is layered with real-life adversity, hard-earned wisdom, and relentless belief in the power of art to heal and elevate. For any artist trying to find their voice or build a career from scratch, her words aren’t just inspiration — they’re a roadmap.

Here’s a look at some of La Morena’s most powerful, straight-from-the-heart advice for artists navigating the grind.

"So art really saved my life. It inspired me. It inspires others. And because I've seen the impact that my murals and my work has had in the community, that is healing work for me. That's growth."

For La Morena, art isn’t a hobby — it’s medicine. She explains how painting became a tool for self-healing after escaping a toxic 12-year relationship filled with domestic violence. Her testimony reflects the way creativity can become a survival tool and a vehicle for transformation.

"Hope is the antidote to depression and to mental illness... that is my validation that, you know, my work is helping others and that's why I do it." 

Creating for others gives her strength. Whether painting murals or engaging communities, she’s seen how her work sparks hope — and hope, she says, is a lifeline.

"I say, T\'áá hó\'ájitéégóó, which means keep going, keep moving forward."

To young or struggling artists, La Morena offers this simple but profound piece of encouragement, drawn from Indigenous language and tradition: keep going. Your ancestors’ survival is your legacy.

"You have to have faith, have hope and determination to keep going... if I can do it, you can do it too."

No sugar-coating here — she acknowledges the obstacles, especially for artists of color. But she speaks from lived proof: perseverance and self-belief can take you further than you think.

"I'm not here to just chase fame or the money. That's not what is keeping me going. It's just that I'm in service — as with art, you know, I'm an ally to our creator."

For La Morena, the purpose behind her art transcends personal success. It’s spiritual. It’s about service. She sees herself as a vessel for something greater — a perspective that anchors her deeply.

"I love what I do for many reasons because I get to tell stories of real people... I always add a little bit of me into these paintings that I do."

Her art isn’t abstract — it’s deeply personal. She blends her own narrative with the stories of others, creating work that is layered, communal, and emotionally rich.

"Painting murals in different communities and seeing their eyes light up — that fills my cup."

Joy doesn’t come from a paycheck. It comes from impact. Whether it’s a mural that makes someone pause or a connection with a stranger in the street, those moments fuel her passion.

"With the colors that I use, there's a reason why I use, like, bright colors. It's because of the energy. First you're pulled because of the colors, and then second, you see the actual image."

Even her palette is intentional. She paints to attract, uplift, and energize — especially in public spaces where so many walk with their heads down. Her colors invite people to look up.

"I think a company like DIA is inspiring because... it gets to tell authentically our stories, right? And what is more inspiring or motivating than a story?

Her collaboration with Dia Café wasn’t just about coffee. It was about shared values — celebrating stories from the margins and giving voice to communities that often go unseen.

For those still trying to find their voice, their lane, or their first big opportunity — La Morena’s journey reminds us all that success isn’t given, it’s built. Day by day. Stroke by stroke. Voice by voice.

Seize your voice. Seize your story. Seize the Dia.