With the internet being so easy to access, it has become easier for independent artists to find an audience and let their work be known. As a result, a variety of movements, collectives, and scenes have found a way to pave their way. The independent art scene in Puerto Rico is no different. Recently, a variety of artists from a variety of disciplines have found platforms that have made it easier for them to share their work. In addition, small businesses such as Electroshock in Santurce and Rio Piedras, bars like Off The Wall in Mayaguez and libraries like La Casita Books and Gifts in Aguadilla, have provided up-and-coming artists a space for them to display their talents. “Puerto Rican Women Killing It in the Independent Art Scene” are interviews which provide a glimpse at a few of the women who are making their way in said movement. Though the artists were asked similar questions, some were asked queries focused specifically on their work.
Daniela Romero, better known as SUPAKID, is a photographer and illustrator who is very passionate about design and fashion. In the last few years, her work has excelled in the independent art scene showing her unique voice within the movement. The following interview was conducted online.
(picture of SUPAKID by Bairoa)
How did you develop your style and how has it evolved through the years?
Experimenting a lot. Trying different styles. Giving everything a chance. That way I figured out what things I don’t like, what works best for me and to constantly re-discover who I am.
I’ve seen your work is highly influenced by vaporwave and 1980s aesthetics, what got you into this style?
My influences don’t come from vaporwave. I found out about the movement later on, when people started telling me about it. My influences are from my childhood. Being a 90s kid, there is a color palette and design hybrid between 80s and early 90s that merge together at some point in time that I love. My dad is a photographer, so unintentionally I was exposed and schooled on having visual culture from an early age.
(by SUPAKID)
I’ve seen you delve into the worlds of modeling, fashion design and interior design, how did that happen and how do you apply your unique art style into these fields?
That’s more just standing in front of a camera, not really modeling. This began from an interest of documenting my own outfits. I like how I style myself, so I started to take pictures of how I dress with the purpose that when I’m 105 years old and can’t remember half of my life, there will be this archive of images to help me scream at those pictures, “wtf was I thinking.” Interior design is more of my passion for design, light and colors splattered inside my home. I like making my living space a reflection of who I am.
What do you think about the current state of the arts in Puerto Rico?
It’s thriving. People are hungry for exposure and validation.
(by SUPAKID)
What do you think about the current state of the independent scene in Puerto Rico?
There is the music scene, comic & illustration scene, drag scene, experimental dance scene, the pole dance community, fem trap scene, the theater scene, the comedy scene and so on. I’d say that all of these underground or independent movements are rebuilding their communities after the hurricane and thriving with amazing talent. Recognition is people’s focus right now.
Is there any other form of art you wish to pursue? If so, what field and why?
Making neons with my bare hands. I’ve also wanted to design furniture. I have an obsession with chairs and lamps. But I think I would go crazy trying to hoard them all.
(by SUPAKID)
If a young girl came up to you and said she wanted to be an artist, what would be your advice for her?
Save up kid. You’re gonna need money if you wanna get anything done. The same goes for any boy or girl.
What do you seek to achieve with art?
Hope it means something to someone enough to want to know more about the things I’ve documented.
(by SUPAKID)
What is your biggest goal right now?
Getting my personal projects funded. Publishing my two zines, “Santurce” and “Ponce.” Make a solo show where I can just show the ideas inside my head.
Find SUPAKID on her official website, Instagram and Facebook
*All the pictures in this interview were provided by the artist