Artist Carolina Donoso has had a couple of weeks to reflect since her “Dancing in the Rain” mural was unveiled on Aug. 3 in Downtown Midland.
The large painting marked the latest addition to a growing number of murals in the Downtown area and can be viewed from McDonald St. on the side of Tri-Star Bank. This mural has a heavy focus on mental health, a theme that Donoso has implemented in much of her work.
“Dance can allow us to put our emotions into motion and process how we truly feel,” Donoso said.
The mural depicts people dancing in the rain and leaving their umbrellas behind.
“Dance is the best kind of soul medicine,” she added.
Donoso’s focus on incorporating elements of mental health into her artwork came after a challening time for her personally.
After graduating from Emerson College in Boston in 2021, Donoso moved to Los Angeles for a year to intern for a large art organization. However, during her time as an intern, she spent more time in sales than working creatively.
She ultimately decided to move back to Midland, where her family lives, and explore her creativity further.
“That kind of pushed me to make some bigger decisions, focus more on my own creative process and figure out what it was that I wanted to share with the world,” she said.
During this timeframe, the world was shut down socially due to COVID and Donoso felt disconnected. She was also stressed with being a recent college grad and having to transition into the workforce.
“I was going through my own mental health journey, trying to find my place in the world,” she said. “And through therapy and a lot of research, I found my way.”
She hopes her art reaches others who need support.
“It’s still something I’m very passionate about because if we can’t take care of our mental health, then we can’t function.”
In addition to themes of mental health and her years of experience, plenty of other factors play into Donoso’s unique style.
Before her family moved to Midland 11 years ago, they had traveled internationally for several years. She is originally from Brazil, although her childhood memories are from countries all over the world.
Donoso graduated from H.H. Dow High School in 2017, where she recalls first expressing herself through her art. She also painted her first mural while in high school.
She found herself traveling the world once again in college through a study abroad program.
“I am well-traveled, and I am very thankful I’ve had the opportunity to do so,” she said.
The study abroad program focused on socialization and social impact. Donoso believes this helped her create projects that have a social impact.
“I hope to continue creating projects with a purpose,” she said. “I’d like to do more on a communal level, with some different themes and hopefully more nationwide.”
Donoso hopes to work with area non-profits – specifically those that deal with mental health related issues – on some of her upcoming projects.
Those wanting to view more of Donoso’s work can check out her Instagram @carolinadonoso, her website (www.carolinadonoso.com) or stop by Creative 360’s downtown gallery at 144 Ashman St., where she has her own studio.
“I hope that (“Dancing in the Rain”) is a reminder that you don’t have to struggle alone,” Donoso said. “Processing your emotions and seeking help is an act of bravery and encourages others to do the same.”