Meet Jay Lopez | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jay Lopez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jay, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
Being an artist is a profession and we are not yet paid as such. Art must be taken seriously since it requires studies, practice, experience, creativity and many sacrifices. Having talent is just the beginning because it must be polished in order to shine and make a difference. There are many people who have become famous in a very short time but those people have not been trained to know how to deal with the price of fame and the responsibility of setting a good example and contributing positive things to the world.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am an artist. For years I have trained in the branches of art. I sing, dance, act, write, direct, and create content. I always try to bring good things to people. The path has not been easy since the society in which we live is greatly influenced by its leaders and most of them insist on following the rules that were written thousands of years ago, therefore they do not apply in this century. Art began as a public denunciation of the politics, religion and leadership that have governed us. Fortunately, art has evolved for the better. When I started acting professionally I encountered many stigmas about what the character I was auditioning for should be like. You had to be a man, macho, manly and there was no other way. The industry closed many doors on me because they saw me differently and thought that I did not have an audience that would follow me and support me. There were years of uncertainty and I threw in the towel many times but my heart told me not to stop. I tried to lead a normal, usual, boring life, but I have always known that people see me differently so I started to use that to my advantage. The artist touches the feelings and plays with them to have your attention. They say that this world is for crazy people and honestly you have to be crazy to dare to be free and happy. I want to leave a legacy in art and open the doors even more for future generations. Inclusion must always exist, it is up to us not to let them exclude us. Currently I can say that I am valued, respected and loved just as I am. Fortunately, I am co-contracted as an artist and I am paid, but now I have to fight for the pay to be fairer because in order to shine, a lot of brilliance is required and that also costs.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
You have to visit Plaza Mariachi, especially on Wednesdays when they have lottery nights and I am one of the people who animate the games. Here you can find delicious food and drinks typical of my Mexico and you can also buy souvenirs, outside there is the Frida Kahlo mural so you can take photos. Continuing with murals, East Nashville has many and my favorite is the one of Dolly Parton that is in five points. The Gulch has the giant wings mural with things representative of Nashville. In downtown Nashville, you will love to walk down Broadway and visit all the shops and bars. Now on 5th Avenue we have a huge shopping center and I recommend it because they have everything. You will also really like the Parthenon and Centennial Park. And lastly, you must walk on the John Seigenthaler pedestrian bridge.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to start by thanking my husband, Angel Lira-Quezada, who supports me at all times and lets me fly without cutting my wings. To my mentors who have been with me in this process of professional growth. Ana Morales, who is always watching my steps and who helps me reach my goals faster. Leticia Alvarez, who has a lot of wisdom and understands very well the way of thinking of Latinos, especially the many of us who live in the United States. To Misty, who is currently my talent representative and who has managed to make a name for herself in the artistic world. Gloria Alvarez who represents me in the state of Florida and who believes in me. Alex, who listens to me, suggests, advises and takes care of my hair and image. Thank you so much !

Website: https://dot.cards/soyjaylopez

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soyjaylopez/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaylopezoficial1/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SoyJayLopez

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoh9cq-fu2TUwkgAtOe-YRQ

Other: TikTok: @soyjaylopez