Meet the MARALOVE artist, Mariel Mendez, and discover her latest collection named "SELF RESISTANCE."
MARALOVE is a brand that strives to inspire and uplift individuals, reminding them of their own unique magic as human beings.
About the Artist
Mariel Mendez is a talented Mexican-American artist who is deeply passionate about fashion, colors, and style. She has established a brand that is dedicated to promoting artistic innovations. Through her illustrations, Mariel beautifully captures the sensitivity of women and the expression of fashion in our modern times. The creator of "MARALOVE" was raised in both Tijuana, Mexico, and San Diego, CA. She had a passion for art from a young age and took extracurricular art classes for over two decades. When creating portraits, she enjoyed using a mix of different styles and techniques along with bright colors.
Art has always been an essential part of her life. After teaching art to preschoolers for ten years, she decided to launch her own brand in 2014 with the name "MARALOVE." Despite the challenges of balancing two full-time jobs, she courageously pursued her dream of becoming an independent artist. Her unwavering focus on seeking opportunities has made her journey emotional and authentic, reflecting her unique personality.
She has showcased her artwork in both the United States and Mexico, collaborating with various organizations such as the Feminist Task Force in NY, OGG in NY, and department stores like Neiman Marcus and NORDSTROM in San Diego, CA. She has also participated in Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in Mexico and collaborated with other organizations globally. Her artwork is currently exhibited at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Downtown and Westfield Mission Valley in San Diego, California.
Throughout her journey, she has made it a priority to seize every opportunity while nurturing her mind and creativity. This path has been an emotional one, but it has unveiled her exceptional personality.
Education
Mariel is a highly educated individual who has achieved several academic accomplishments. She graduated from Eastlake High School, located in Chula Vista, California, back in 2004. After completing high school, Mariel went on to pursue a degree in the School of Arts situated in Tijuana, B.C, México, in 2006. During the same year, she also obtained an associate's degree in Childhood Montessori Education from Tijuana, B.C, México. Mariel's passion for teaching and education led her to enroll in an Associate's Degree program in Childhood Education in San Diego, CA, which Mariel actively pursued from 2007 to 2008. Later, she also obtained a degree as an Art Instructor in 2010, further adding to her impressive academic achievements.
"Find out who you are and be that person. That's what your soul was put on this earth to be. Find that truth, live that truth, and everything else will come."
-MARALOVE
MARALOVE Organization
Mariel, an art teacher with extensive experience, has established a non-profit organization that collaborates with businesses willing to provide art supplies for underprivileged children without access to art. The organization's lessons include an art activity related to the theme discussed in the class, covering topics such as education, environmentalism, animal welfare, ocean conservation, self-esteem, nutrition, and other relevant subjects. MARALOVE has participated in several schools in Mexico and the US. This group has done well by encouraging creativity, which is vital for childhood development. Seeing kids valuing and respecting an organization committed solely to their well-being is positive for the community.
"SELF RESISTANCE"
"This collection from 2022 is dedicated to a moment of darkness and light. My work for "Self Resistance" is inspired by a life lesson that will accompany me for the rest of my life. Showing resistance towards decisions that are out of your control turns into the biggest suffering instances; the best thing to do is let go and let things happen without the fear of uncertainty but always be thankful for what life has given you that moment." - MARALOVE
“SELF RESISTANCE” Photoshoot Collection, 2022
Photography: Yaz Reve
Creative Direction: MARALOVE
Styling: MARALOVE
Model: Ileana Mendez
Website: https://maraloveshop.com/
Instagram: @mara.love
Facebook: MARALOVE