Mural Fest Artist - America Carrillo

Q&A with America Carrillo - Make It Your Own Mural Fest Artist

Huntington County | Huntington

• Artist | America Carrillo
• Hometown | Huntington, IN
• Mural Location | 35 W. Market St., Huntington, IN 46750

1. Why is public art important to a community’s quality of life?

Public art is important for a community because it offers the experience of an art museum to those who didn’t know they needed it. Not everyone likes to travel or has the opportunity to travel and see art in bigger cities, so by bringing large-scale art to smaller communities, that inspiration is offered to those who may need it the most. Public art also raises the vibration of the community. Color has a profound impact on the brain. It has the potential to turn someone’s entire day around. The bigger the better.

2. Why did you apply to install a mural in Northeast Indiana? 

I applied to install a mural in Northeast Indiana because it is my home. I like to travel and paint all over the country, but my family and my closest friends are here and it’s the place I feel the most inspired.

3. What is it about installing/painting murals that you enjoy so much?

Oh my, where do I begin? I really feel like I have found my purpose through mural art. I enjoy painting outside because it makes other people happy. I love reminding others to think outside the box. Each mural is an extension of me, and being able to extend my love to strangers when I’m not around makes me happy.

4. What is it like installing a mural?

Painting a mural is like biting into a muffin thinking it’s blueberry then realizing it’s actually self-doubt flavored. It’s a really vulnerable process.

5. What else would you like Northeast Indiana residents to know about you and your artwork?

My artwork saved my life. I was in a really tough spot a few years ago where I wasn’t showing myself the love I deserved. One day I just tapped into this alternate creative side and everything changed. My art is me showing up for myself and having faith in what I’m capable of. It’s letting the negative go and allowing inspiration to take over.

About America Carrillo

Those with a creative mind have described the artistic thinking process as trance-like. America has entranced herself with visuals since early childhood. She is most inspired by change, believing that labels are limitations that keep us from growing beyond the expectations they imply. She is most influenced by contemporary surrealism and is physically energized by the viewer’s emotional response to her work. Color captures the eye but composition keeps it captivated. Public art is her passion and she donates murals often to those in need of inspiration. Read more about America Carrillo here.

See examples of America Carrillo's murals below!