Jul, 25, 2022
ArtistsCommunityPhxArtist Spotlight
Sabree Garcia: In Her Own Words
During elementary school, Sabree Garcia never wanted to leave art class. Today, her passion for art persists, as she draws inspiration from the people she meets and the things she sees.
Over the years, Sabree has honed her skills in painting with acrylics, depicting florals and greenery, creating abstractions, and experimenting with lettering. She also paints large-scale murals across the Valley, including a recently completed mural for the Hilton in downtown Phoenix.
To learn more about her inspirations, upcoming projects, and more, hear from Sabree Garcia, in her own words.
“[H]ave fun and paint what you would want to have in your home or wall—paint what makes you happy and satisfied.”
Sabree Garcia, Portrait. Photo: KBR (@kbrofficial).
PhxArt: Tell us about who you are and where you’re from. What was your first inspiration, and what continues to inspire your work?
Sabree Garcia: I am a mural artist, designer, and mother. I am originally from Texas but have lived in Arizona most of my life. I first knew I wanted to be an artist when I never wanted to leave art class in elementary school, and my first inspiration was street art—I’ve always had a big love for graffiti-style art because that’s where mural art started. Even though it wasn’t legal, graffiti was a way for people to express themselves. Painting at a large-scale is time consuming, and I know that in the moment, it makes artists feel at peace.
I am inspired by the people I meet and the things I see daily. I’m also inspired by modern art and design elements. I love staying in the now and going bold. In an artist’s world, it’s hard to pinpoint one specific inspiration, so my work is definitely inspired by many things!
What motivates me to keep creating is not just how art makes me feel but how it makes others feel; the effect art has on others is indescribable and so unique because everyone views art differently and has their own idea of what art represents to them.
Sabree Garcia, Live Painting for Murals and Margaritas, 2021. Acrylic on wood panel. Courtesy of the artist. Event hosted by @ad.rami
PhxArt: What are the media that you prefer to work in, and what topics and styles do you focus on?
SG: I like to work with acrylic paints, but I’m hoping to get more involved with spray paint. I love acrylics because of the way the colors blend. It’s very therapeutic.
I focus a lot on nature in my work, like floral and greenery, but I also love abstraction and lettering. I focus on nature because it’s forgiving. For a flower or feather, no two are alike; it’s organic and beautiful in its own way. So, I paint in that same mentality. I love abstract art because it creates style and freedom. Lettering has its own beautiful form with curves and lines. When I first started created murals, I began as an assistant blocking in color and now I actually get to do the fun detailing part, so I feel like I’m evolving with each mural I create. The message I’m trying to convey is to have fun and paint what you would want to have in your home or wall—paint what makes you happy and satisfied.
PhxArt: Who are your greatest artistic influences?
SG: I love the locals in Phoenix. Each person inspires and motivates me. The community and art scene here are amazing, and I’m happy to be a part of it. As for style, some of my favorite artists are Shepard Fairey, Salvador Dalí, and Frida Kahlo. I love the authenticity in Kahlo’s work. I’m also a huge fan of El Mac and many other artists who work here in Arizona.
Sabree Garcia, Frys Food Store Parking Garage (Downtown Phoenix), 2020. Acrylic. Courtesy of the artist.
PhxArt: What’s something you’re currently working on or have recently exhibited?
SG: I recently finished a mural for the Hilton located in downtown Phoenix, which was an amazing opportunity to contribute a piece of art to a building constructed in the 1930s with so much history. My most recent work has been in downtown Phoenix, Tempe, and few residential spots.
PhxArt: What is some advice you’d give to aspiring artists just beginning to build their professional practice?
SG: Believe in yourself. Anything is possible. Don’t wait (but for reals—don’t wait). Your hard work will pay off, so keep going and keep moving. Don’t be afraid to say hi to people; networking goes a long way.
Sabree Garcia, Mural at Hilton Garden Inn Employee Lounge (detail), 2021. Acrylic. Courtesy of the artist.
PhxArt: What can our community expect to see next from you?
SG: I’m very excited for some upcoming projects. I will be working on a Desert Ridge Plaza mural, a project with the City of Avondale, and a painting for a huge new residential apartment complex near Queen Creek, Arizona.
SEE MORE
To see more artwork by Sabree Garcia, visit www.sabreeart.com or follow her on Instagram @sabree.art.
#CreativeQuarantine
PhxArt: We’re curious how creatives are navigating the time of coronavirus. Sabree Garcia shares what gave her life during the pandemic.
SG: My son, friends, and family who continue to support me give me life. I’m really grateful for that support and God for having my back. I keep active, so when the weather cools down, I enjoy hiking (a favorite Arizona activity). Listening to music at all times also keeps me going. And I’m starting to say “yes” to more opportunities while also taking care of myself, which is helping to spark a new chapter in my art-world journey.