Caroline Z. Marcos
Caroline joined First Saturday Arts Market when it was about 6 years old. She took a break to be a Mom and returned just a few years ago. She’s currently working on new exciting projects as she continues to explore her creative side.
Tell us about yourself outside of the art world.
I’m a mom of two (ages 11 and 8). I was born in Alexandria, Egypt, raised in California, and moved to Texas in 2007 after marrying my husband. We met in San Diego at a church conference. I currently live in the Northwest area of Houston. I’ve been making art since age ten, and I have a bachelor’s degree in Studio Art and a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy. I love the ocean and being outside, exploring new places. I love to read, and I’m involved in my church, helping out with the kids’ camps there.
How did your art journey begin?
My grandfather was an oil painter, and we had his oil paintings all over the house I grew up in, and my aunt also followed in his footsteps. There were a lot of pre-Raphael renditions all over the place. I was always drawn to it. In high school, my art teacher told me to join the honors watercolor club, and I also got recognized for an art show at that time, so I was hooked. I majored in art in college, but it was part of a double major with psychology because I come from an immigrant family who didn’t believe that a career in art was real.
Where are you now with your art?
I ask myself that every day lol. It’s my passion and my dream, so I’m always working on it, both in my studio, applying to calls, etc. My last few things have been getting juried into the Art Car Museum “Blue” show. In 2022, one of my paintings was acquired by The Woodlands High School Art Trust. I finished the Artist Inc. program in 2023. I got some great commissions completed this past summer of 2023.
Do you have big plans/goals for the future?
I want to connect with interior designers and work more closely with them and do some more commission work. I want to find other avenues, walls to put my work on as well. I’m open.
What guidance would you offer to a budding or novice artist?
Take yourself and your art seriously because it’s important work. Don’t give up on it, no matter the resistance you might get from the outside world or your own family. Keep honing your skills, continue to learn, and always have a ‘beginner’s mind’ so it stays fresh and fun. Your vision and your work are unique because it’s made by you. Don’t worry that “it’s been done before” because it’s never been done before by you.
Bonus Question! Anything wild and crazy that would raise eyebrows?
I’ve hiked Mount Sinai (Moses’ mountain) on foot and by camel! I saw the most amazing night sky! I also hiked Yosemite, which was one of the most amazing experiences in my life.
One weird fact
I love Tom Waits. Took awhile for this Egyptian to acquire that taste in music! lol
