Meet Milagros Rivera a Mixed Media Artist and Instructor

Milagros Rivera is, at her core, an artist. She breathes life into any material that speaks to her and empowers others through her words and imagery. Mixed Media is her passion!

Milagros is also a business woman, operating The Paper Boutique Scrapbooking Studio in Puerto Rico since 2006. Here, she hosts in-person workshops as well as live workshops and education sessions. You can also shop with her, in-person or virtually.

Her boutique is filled with all the materials you could need to create until your hearts content. You’ll also find her signature stamps which speak to your soul. Follow her on social to catch her lives, listen to her words, be empowered by her art. 

In This Episode of Heart & Hands of a Maker

Milagros Rivera, a mixed media artist living in Puerto Rico, shares her creative journey, how her business came to be, and how she navigated the challenges of hurricane Maria and the pandemic. Milagros shares the importance of being adaptive in business and finding inspiration in her surroundings. She also emphasizes the power of giving and sharing, as well as taking risks and embracing mistakes. Milagros encourages artists to be unique and authentic in their work and highlights the value of in-person connections at shows and events.

Key Takeaways

  • Attending in-person events is crucial for learning techniques, making connections, and seeing products up close.
  • Adapting to challenges and taking risks is essential for success in business.
  • Being unique and original is key to getting published and standing out in the creative industry.
  • Building a community and giving back can bring joy and fulfillment in the creative journey.
  • Finding inspiration from the surroundings and embracing mistakes can lead to new ideas and growth.
  • Attending craft shows and in-person events provides valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and showcasing creativity. Creativity is essential for personal growth and self-expression.
  • Finding inspiration can come from unexpected sources.
  • Challenges are opportunities for learning and growth.
  • Building a community of like-minded individuals can provide support and encouragement.
  • Advice for aspiring makers: embrace failure, be persistent, and stay true to yourself.
Be Bold; Scribble Stick and ink, by Milagros Rivera

Chapters

(times are estimates)

00:00

Introduction and Creative Inspiration

02:17

Starting a Creative Business

03:43

Overcoming Challenges: Hurricane and Pandemic

07:02

Adapting to Change in Business

09:42

The Importance of Being Adaptive

10:32

Supporting the Community

12:46

The Power of Giving and Sharing

15:33

Getting Published and Being Unique

19:15

Taking Risks and Making Contacts

20:53

Finding Inspiration in the Surroundings

23:39

Creating with Unconventional Materials

27:15

The Power of ‘What If’

28:39

Being Spontaneous and Experimental

30:56

Embracing Mistakes and Persevering

36:17

Spreading Positivity and Hope

38:31

Upcoming Projects and Travel

46:22

Preserving Puerto Rican Culture

49:41

The Value of In-Person Connections

50:09

Closing Remarks

Espiritu Libre; watercolor by Milagros Rivera
Yesterday is Heavy; acrylic and ink, by Milagros Rivera
Stamps designed by Milagros Rivera

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