by bella
Bella Ocaña
The Face Behind the Blog
A Bit About Me
I have spent most of my life immersed in creating and studying art. My interest largely lies in understanding the interdisciplinary connections between Art, Science, and Business. In art, emotional intelligence drives my love for discovering new perspectives and finding meaning within artistic creations; science requires the raw intelligence of applying my skills and knowledge toward research, and business utilizes these skills to strategize, sell, and effectively communicate with others.
As I am finishing up my senior year as an Art History major and double minor in Italian Studies and Advertising at Chapman University, I have reflected on the breadth of art historical courses I’ve had the privilege to take. The art world is filled with artists from a variety of backgrounds. Coming from a Hispanic multicultural family, I find it incredibly important to view art from all perspectives to enrich my perspective of the world and bring it into a global mindset. This broad outlook on art fuels my passion for a lifelong career in the arts whether it's making art, private art sales or working in a gallery.
In my own artwork, my artistic specialties include jewelry making, sculpture, and avante garde fashion. I’ve had technical training in many art mediums and find joy in creation. I take any opportunity to get my hands dirty and work with materials. Art is my passion, and whether I am studying its history, selling it, making it, or bringing creativity to a business practice I am immersing myself in what brings me the most fulfillment in my life.
Gallery and Museum Experience
Gallery Intern
Bentley Gallery
June 2021 - August 2021
Curatorial Intern
Phoenix Art Museum
August 2020 - October 2020
Gallery Intern, Art Selection Committee Member
Santa Fe Art District
June 2017 - December 2017
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Collected bibliographic research on recently acquired artist works and interior designers for gallery database; collaborated with Art Director on private art acquisitions and client services.
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Maintained gallery collections and exhibitions physically and through management systems online.
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Prepared bibliographic and object research, wrote artist blurbs on curatorial projects, and reviewed the museum database and management system under the Deputy Director and Chief Curator, Gilbert Vicario.
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Learned and applied creative peacemaking to develop an idea, prototype, and pitch for an urban plaza to creative professionals throughout the Denver area at Center for Visual Arts Denver for one-month internship.
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Approved and assessed art applications for the Santa Fe art installation grant in 2017. Work included weekly reviews and meetings, as well as review of safety and financial guidelines for the bid.
Other Arts Experience
Board Youth Representative and Co-Chair
Art Students League of Denver
September 2017 - March 2019
Jewelers Apprentice
Kim Harrell Jewelry
March 2017 - June 2019
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Coordinated and developed youth marketing plan and implemented youth fundraisers and activities
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Analyzed and voted on arts programs, financials, and administrative issues.
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Assisted with commissioned metalwork, studio organization, website design and marketing.
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Sold and procured luxury jewelry out of the studio and at various art markets such as the Summer Art Market (SAM). Collaborated with clients on commissioned jewelry work.