From cheese boards to coloring books: a pandemic pivot with purpose
Annie Reyes, the Cuban-born, Venezuelan-raised founder of Hivedeco, transformed personal trauma and a global crisis into a mission of healing through art. Her journey from graphic designer to art therapist and entrepreneur is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the therapeutic power of artistic expression.
A journey rooted in healing and creativity
Annie's artistic path began in her youth, painting school bulletin boards and attending her mother's art classes. After earning a degree in graphic design in Venezuela, she moved to Miami, where she explored mural art at Miami-Dade College in 2002. During this time, she painted commissioned murals while establishing a marketing business specializing in branding and promotions. Although her focus shifted toward technology and a full-time role with the Kiwanis of Little Havana, Annie's creative drive remained a guiding force.
The challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 led her to prayer and a renewed connection with her artistic roots. She transformed everyday objects into over 500 commissioned artworks during this period, bringing much joy and solace during global uncertainty. This pivotal experience rekindled her passion and set her on a new creative path.
By 2023, Annie embraced digital tools like Procreate to create intricate illustrations, embarking on a mission to share the therapeutic benefits of art through adult coloring books. To date, she has published 12 coloring books on major online platforms like Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Her work reflects a deep commitment to well-being and creativity, blending traditional artistry with innovative techniques.
Art as therapy: collaborations and community impact
Annie's dedication to the therapeutic power of art extends beyond her own creations. Her Hivedeco coloring books are used in a Texas medical clinic for therapy sessions with immigrants facing challenging journeys. Additionally, she is collaborating with a prominent hospital on a special event for teenagers with cancer, where she will lead a coloring session, providing a calming creative outlet during their emotional recovery. These initiatives highlight how Annie's work fosters comfort, hope, and healing through creativity.
Her coloring books are more than just artistic endeavors; they are tools for mental wellness. Engaging in coloring activities has been shown to reduce anxiety and promote mindfulness, offering a non-verbal outlet for stress relief. Annie's work in this field has been recognized with multiple awards, including the 2024 Global Recognition Award for Artistic Excellence and Community Impact.
Cultural identity and personalization in art
Annie's Cuban heritage and Venezuelan upbringing deeply influence her artistic creations. She infuses her work with cultural motifs and themes that resonate with diverse audiences. Through Hivedeco, she offers personalized art pieces that celebrate individual identities, traditions, and stories. This customization fosters a deeper connection between the artwork and its owner, making each piece a unique reflection of personal heritage.
Her ability to navigate the challenges of establishing Hivedeco in the U.S. as an immigrant entrepreneur showcases her resilience. Overcoming language barriers and cultural adjustments, Annie leveraged her artistic talents to build a brand that not only thrives commercially but also serves a greater purpose in promoting mental health and cultural appreciation.
Looking ahead: expanding the reach of art therapy
Annie envisions a future where Hivedeco's impact extends further into communities and institutions. She aims to collaborate Hivedeco with organizations, politicians, and clinics to highlight the mental health benefits of adult coloring books and art therapy. By integrating art into various facets of society, she hopes to make therapeutic creative expression accessible to all, fostering a culture that values mental wellness and artistic exploration.
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Discover more about Annie Reyes and her work at Hivedeco.
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