Isabella Morillo

I attribute my success to moments of transformation—those defining instances that reshape direction, clarify purpose, and call for courage. For me, that moment came in Utah, the day I was let go from my graphic design position. What initially felt like a setback became the catalyst that led me to the work I was truly meant to pursue. It marked the beginning of my transition from designer to full-time fine artist, a shift that has profoundly shaped my career, my creative identity, and the way I approach every project.

Today, my practice exists at the intersection of fine art, live painting, brand development, and large-scale installations. Los Angeles became the landscape where my creative voice could grow and flourish. I’ve had the privilege of exhibiting alongside a member of the Getty family, completing major mural and scenic commissions, and tackling projects that challenged both my technical skills and artistic vision. These experiences—and the resilience they demanded—have been instrumental in my growth and evolution as an artist.

Education has also played a pivotal role in my journey. I am grateful for the rigorous, uncompromising mentors who pushed me to understand the realities of the art world and to raise my standards. Their guidance built a foundation that continues to support my growth—through awards, installations, and new opportunities alike—including receiving Best of Show in product design in 2019.

My advice to young women entering this industry is not to fear the moments that feel like endings. The day my graphic design career ended became the doorway to everything I love and pursue today. Setbacks are full of lessons—pay attention to them. Trust the quiet pull toward what feels most authentic, even if it doesn’t make sense right away.

Above all, cultivate a practice rooted in resilience. Show up for your craft when no one is watching, seek mentors who challenge and inspire you, and remain curious enough to evolve. The art world rewards those who create with intention, courage, and conviction. Ultimately, your career will grow in the same direction you are willing to grow yourself.

One of the biggest challenges in my field is finding the right community and environment to support growth as an artist. Growing up in Utah, the creative scene was limited compared to the culture and inspiration I discovered after relocating to Los Angeles. Transitioning from graphic design to fine art meant stepping into a world with no guaranteed structure, no clear roadmap, and often no safety net. There were moments when projects fell through, when work felt invisible, and when I questioned whether the risks were worth it.

Large-scale installations tested me both physically and mentally, and navigating Los Angeles’ competitive art scene demanded resilience I didn’t realize I had. Yet each challenge sharpened my discipline and clarified my purpose. I learned that growth often happens in the moments that stretch us the most—and that persistence, more than talent, is what sustains an artist and keeps creative practice moving forward.

The values that guide my work and personal life extend beyond the canvas. Sustainability and community responsibility are central to everything I do. Through my volunteer efforts with organizations like Trashy IE and Graffiti Park, I’ve seen firsthand how creative spaces thrive when nurtured with care, stewardship, and collective action. I believe artists have a responsibility to protect and sustain the environments in which they create, and I bring that belief to every project.

At the same time, painting remains the heart of my life, supported by practices that keep me grounded—dance, meditation, fashion, and a commitment to approach my craft with clarity, intention, and focus. These values shape not only my work but also the way I engage with the world and the communities I am part of.