Mariel Barcelon is a Filipino-Canadian mixed-media artist. In this interview, she gives us a glimpse into her creative floral world, sharing her typical day and how she finds inspiration in everyday moments. She talks about her love for life being the main driving force behind her current work, her joy in bouncing ideas with clients, and her connection with nature during her morning walks.

Mariel Barcelon is a featured artist in our book “The Creative Process.” You can explore her journey and the stories of other artists by purchasing the book here: https://shop.artstoheartsproject.com/products/the-creative-process-book

In this week’s studio visit interview, Mariel explains that her love for life fuels her current work, and she enjoys sharing ideas with her clients. Maia, her chocolate labrador, is always by her side, sniffing her floral arrangements to ensure they pass “quality control.”
She fondly recalls when LUX BY MB was born—an idea that came to her during a shower! Mariel also dreams of having a cozy, lakeside studio one day. For now, her studio smells like calming lavender, creating the perfect space for her to bring her creative ideas to life.

1.  Mariel, describe your typical studio day and creative process.

Administrative tasks, such as the cleaning-up process, mainly consume my typical day. Ideally, it starts with me doing my daily devotions, meditation, and power walks with my dog Maia, and then when I go back to nature, I will enjoy the lake and breathe. I bounce ideas with clients, research, design, and work away.

2. What is the primary inspiration behind your current body of work?  

Love for life

3. What is your favorite memory or incident from your studio?

My favorite memory is when I first thought about creating LUX BY MB. Believe it or not, I found it while I was showering. During COVID, I wanted to make luxury accessible, have that warmth, and access products and services in the comfort of my home.

4. Do you have any studio assistants, or do any visitors like pets or kids often accompany you?

Maia is my quality check. She sniffs whether my floral arrangement passes Quality control. Maia is a chocolate labrador and my third-year-old baby. The family has been there since day 1.

5. How would you describe a dream studio for yourself?

The dream studio will be on a lakefront—warm lights, bonfire and cosy.

6. What does your studio smell of right now?

Lavender

7. If you could set up your studio anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Maldives

8. Can you discuss any ongoing projects or plans for your work?   

I am working on a Bridgerton project for fall, Thanksgiving, and holidays. I am big on celebrations.

9. How do you organize your space?

I organize my space with labels and categories. I try my best to keep it clean and tidy.

10. What is your favourite corner in the studio?

My desk

Mariel’s studio feels warm and inviting, filled with calm and creativity. It’s an organized, tidy space where everything has its place, but it also feels cozy, especially with soft, warm lighting. Visit our website to explore other artists’ virtual studio spaces. To get featured on our website, don’t forget to apply for this month’s call for art.

Read more about Mariel Barcelon on her Website and Instagram.

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