CREATIVITY BUILDING BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURSHIP

INTERVIEW JOSE MANUEL ESPINOZA, OWNER CREMA CREATIVE MEDIA

Describe your childhood. What experiences growing up influenced who you are today?

JME: Growing up in the southwest, in Tucson, AZ, its vibrancy and color was a significant influence on me. I knew I would be an artist when I grew up as a child. My childhood was amazing. I am the youngest of 4 with three sisters. We had loving, hard-working parents with just enough discipline to keep me on a straight path.

How did your professional career start? What have been the most relevant milestones?

JME: After finishing high school, I played some college baseball. When that was over, I knew I wanted to become an artist. I did not want to spend 4 or 5 years at a standard university studying things that I would not apply. I looked for a private design college, and luckily The Art Center of Tucson had just opened. I loved spending five days a week learning from working professionals in various artistic fields. So, I was off and running.

How has your business evolved? What are some short- and long-term goals?

JME: Have you had any mentors in life? Who inspires you the most?

My business has evolved and reshaped itself over the years, from strictly graphic design and paper sculptures at the beginning to now being about 50% graphic design and 50% photography. Short term goal is to continue to grow the photography side of my business. Crema Creative Media is the design half, and Manny Espinoza is Photography. Mentors have been my parents, other artists, and professionals I have worked with in the past and currently work with. I see competition as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Nature inspires me more than anything, light particularly. I spend most of my life searching for beautiful sun- shine and trying to capture it. Light stops me in my tracks, makes me pull over, get out of the car, and try to capture it.

What influence has your Hispanic back- ground had in your life?

JME: The relaxed, outgoing, and friendly Hispanic style has greatly influenced my ability to grow and expand my business opportunities and long-lasting relationships. The culture's vibrant colors and art history have significantly added to my creative influences.

Share any plans you have. How do you see yourself in 10 years?

JME: I see myself owning my gallery in Car- mel-by-the-Sea and capturing this beautiful central coast where I live.