Expressions by Walgreens hosted Edo on our IG Live interview series. Last week, Expressions talked to Edo, who is also known as Eddie Santana White. Edo is a self-taught artist and entrepreneur born and raised on the Southside of Chicago. Edo’s story is truly an inspirational one that anyone can learn something from. He was a part of the foster care system, having lived in eight different homes in the span of two years, some of which he was even mistreated. Art was his therapy and what got him to where he is today. Edo has now started his own business, Infinite Inception, and mentors teens at Julian High School and After School Matters. Check out some of the things Edo had to share:
How did you discover your talent as an artist?
At the age of 19 years old, he was given an ultimatum by his mom, either work or go to college. He decided to attend Kennedy King College and ultimately took a design class, and found himself staying after class had ended to work on his designs. Out of the blue, he realized that he loved art, loved designing, and loved that art allowed him to use his imagination freely. He said he took this one class and then called it quits. Edo then decided to pursue his newly found passion for art and build on his skills and technique.
What challenges did you have to overcome?
Edo had to overcome a lot of challenges as he pursued his art. At times he was homeless, struggling to sustain himself, feed himself, and pay the bills. But through all these obstacles he was able to overcome and learn from them. Edo says that these challenges helped him learn and grow and continue moving forward.
What advice do you have for viewers when it comes to breaking into the industry?
Have a plan. Edo’s biggest advice is to have a plan because starting a business is not all rainbows and roses. Having a support system is key, even if you’re not someone who likes to ask for help. They’ll be times when you need it and it’ll be good to have people that have your back. Creating a vision board is something Edo has been doing for years now. He has vision boards for the next 3, 6, 9 years. They’re important for him because they help keep him focused on his goals and dreams.
Where have you featured your work and do you have any mentors?
Edo, being a self-taught artist didn’t have any mentors per se. He resorted to YouTube to learn new skills, he observed other artists like Aaron Thomas and other’s to learn new techniques and develop his skill. Edo’s work has been featured at the Google Headquarters, Dusable Museum, LinkedIn’s offices, solo exhibitions, and a lot more!
What is one piece of advice you have for teens?
Perseverance. Things will get tough, things will be complicated but stay focused on your goals and dreams because, in the end, it will all be worth it. Don’t let hard moments handicap you because your mindset is everything.
Check out his work:
Excelsior
Infinite Truth
We thank you, Edo for being our guest on Expressions IG Live and sharing your art journey. You provided us and our followers with some great advice and we look forward to checking out your work in the future. Make sure to check out Edo’s work on Instagram @LegomyEdo. And check out the full interview on our Expressions YouTube Channel!