Monique Weston
Monique has been a regular at the market for years. Her upbeat positivity and caring nature have made her a popular friend to both artists & customers.
Tell us about yourself outside of the art world.
I’m from East Asia originally, been in Houston for 24 years. This is my second career – my first was in intelligence, covering sub-Saharan Africa and Francophone countries worldwide. I still provide briefings here and there, but this career is much more fun! I’m earning a Master’s in Liberal Studies at Rice University. My husband is a really smart, talented finance professor at Rice’s business school. Our son is a freshman at Tulane University, learning lots and having a ball. Two dogs, three fish, and we love dog-sitting!
How did your art journey begin?
I always made funny or pretty doodads out of found objects, and I always liked art exhibits. My hometown, Tokyo, has a plethora of museums showcasing just about everything, and as a kid, I could take the train anywhere and explore all of them. In my teens, I learned about various tools and possibilities from a great teacher and fellow students. I started making jewelry to sell and never stopped. I do small multimedia art projects as well.
Where are you now with your art?
Happy to be selling art via social media, an online store, and various shows. My favorite is First Saturday Arts Market.
Do you have big plans/goals for the future?
Nope, I just want to take classes and learn about techniques and possibilities.
Tell us what’s next and where to find you.
I’ll be at First Saturday Arts Market, at 540 W. 19th St. in Houston’s Heights, on Feb. 3 and March 2, 2024. You can also find links to my work at www.moniqueweston.com. The best selection of my work is on Instagram, at moniquewestonart.
What guidance would you offer to a budding or novice artist?
Learn outside of the expected courses. Combine all your disciplines and knowledge as you go, and then you’ll have authentic work that will let you keep growing.
