Influential Woman · Art
Jeanette Pizarro-Harpe
Author/Multimedia Artist/Founder, Harpe Design / Camouflage to Canvas
Houston, TX 77090
Her Story
About Jeanette
My path began in the U.S. Marine Corps, serving on active duty from 1991 to 1998. That foundation of "Semper Fi" stayed with me through a decade-long government career with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of the Interior. Along the way, I fueled my love for visual storytelling, earning degrees in Digital Arts & Animation and Multimedia Arts and Design.
In 2021, after years of dedicated service in administration, I chose to retire early due to health reasons. Today, I reside in Houston, Texas, with my husband and caregiver, retired USMC Gunnery Sergeant Darius Harpe, and our youngest daughter, Erica. We are a proud military family with a blended home of five children, three girls and 2 sons, including our eldest son, Staff Sergeant Darren Pizarro, who carries on the legacy in the U.S. Air Force.
For years, I moved through the world in camouflage, learning the true meaning of resilience, discipline, and strength. But life, in all its complexity, eventually called me toward a different kind of bravery: the bravery of vulnerability. I’ve spent a large part of my life defined by "the lines." In the U.S. Marine Corps, the lines were my mission, my uniform, and my discipline. But after transitioning to civilian life, a new set of lines appeared, ones I didn't choose.
I transitioned from Camouflage to Canvas, trading my uniform for a palette of vibrant acrylics, flowing watercolors, and rich oils. What I discovered was life-changing, art wasn't just a hobby; it was a sanctuary. It became my most powerful tool for healing from personal trauma and navigating life as a disabled veteran and a Lupus Warrior.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jeanette
01What do you attribute your success to?
Ultimately, God. I can't pinpoint one specific thing, because just when I thought that I just couldn't take one more step, or I couldn't wake up one more day, or I just couldn't do this, He would always bless me with the right person, the right situation, the right circumstance that would uplift me or give me hope to keep pushing through. I've met some amazing people along the way, and they're my family that's not from blood. It's an amazing thing to be able to have that community, when you grow up in an environment where it's chaotic and dysfunctional and you don't feel loved, and then you get it from people that basically are strangers. My dad also taught me to be strong and independent - not to have to worry about 'oh, I can't do this, I need a man to do it for me.' He taught me to stand on my own, even though he had his own struggles with PTSD as a Vietnam vet. Those lessons stuck with me, and I'm grateful for that.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Always continue to learn and seek out opportunities to better yourself and help others to better themselves.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Remember to keep your core beliefs and don't allow anyone to tell you that you cannot do something. Always uplift and support others, never lead with anger or bitterness.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
When you put your mind to it, I believe that we can all overcome any obstacle.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
If you ask my family or any of my long time friends, they will tell you just how much I value family, connectedness and a supportive community. I value loyalty and dependability.
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