I was born in the land of the “inexhaustible runners,” The Tarahumaras. I remember seeing them for the first time as a child in the markets of downtown Chihuahua and immediately felt a connection. When they came together in the markets, they stood out and became a composition of color. They truly embodied every element of art, and it moved me.

My upbringing was a humble one surrounded by community, friendships, and education. My family and I are very close, and our relationships are full of love and memories. My father taught me what hard-work and dedication are. He started a business from nothing and showed me what it is to be resourceful on the path of achieving your dreams.

My mother was another great example of being resilient. She stayed home to take care of my three brothers, sister, and me, and she started making menudo to sell every Saturday to help with the household expenses. 

She became so well-known for her delicious soup that 20 years later our neighbors from Mexico still talk about it.

I remember walking to school at a young age. My mother walked with me until I was old enough to go alone when the journey became my own. The distances varied; the backpacks got heavier, but the weather never changed. It was always extreme, either too hot or too cold.  I was developing an endurance that was preparing me to tackle future challenges with a positive perspective.

When I decided to become an artist, I asked myself, ‘are you willing to do this or not?’ Either answer was fine, but saying ‘yes’ meant hard-work and challenges. I felt that I had a solid foundation to follow my dreams. When I decided to do more research on The Tarahumaras, I found that they are so much more than just the colorful impression I had of them as a child. They are mainly known for their endurance, and I then understood why I was drawn to them on a deeper level. Growing up, we do not realize what is preparing us for the stages of our life. When I look back on the challenges, experiences, and connections, these impactful moments inspire me to share the power of art anywhere life takes me. 

Since the beginning, the main ingredients for my artwork have been the variety and combination of bright colors that I use in my paintings. 

I always trusted that my artwork and I were going to evolve with the years and with experience. 

My inspiration mainly comes from my surroundings, especially nature. The best part of being an artist, I believe, is the fact that there are no limits. 

I can be creating a series of birds and flowers, but there will be a need to use the leftover paint on my brush to create a new raw and abstract piece.

I was once asked by a friend what I thought about a piece of art work at a museum. He interrupted me before I could answer, saying, “I don’t want you to tell me if you like it or not, but how does it make you feel?”

After that experience every time I saw a painting, a sculpture, or even listened to a song, it was never about what I thought, but how it made me feel. Everything changed especially the way I create. My hope is that when you encounter my artwork, I can create a positive emotion in you. 

“I create “FRIENDLY ABSTRACT STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART,” Always with the hope to put a smile on your face.

-Ines Alvidres