Crixtover Edwin - His Art and Becoming

From aspiring doctor to full-time artist, Crixtover Edwin’s journey is a testament to resilience and creativity. Through celebrating Black excellence, he tells stories of pride and identity, creating work that uplifts and inspires audiences both locally and internationally. Through challenges, personal loss, and even a life-changing surgery, Crixtover has remained committed to creating work that connects deeply with audiences across the globe. In this interview, he shares insights into the journey, the struggles and the motivations that continue to drive his art forward.

Can we Start by You Telling us a Little about Yourself and how You Became a Full-Time Artist?

I’ve always been fascinated by art, but for a long time, it was just a hobby. I initially wanted to go into medicine, but that didn’t work out. Eventually, I pivoted into art, starting as a graphic designer and gradually moving into creating full-time. It’s been a crazy journey, but incredibly fulfilling.

Your Work Often Focuses on Black excellence. Why did You Choose that as a Theme, and what Story are You Trying to Tell?

Celebrating Black excellence is about inclusion and representation. I want anyone who sees my work to feel celebrated. Life is complicated and full of challenges, especially as a Black person, but in those moments of engaging with art, I hope people feel seen and valued. It’s about telling a story that uplifts and inspires, while sharing the pride I feel in my own heritage.

Most of Your Collectors are Abroad. How has Engaging with International Audiences Shaped Your Career?

Since going professional in 2020, most of my collectors have been Black Americans and Europeans. Focusing on celebrating Black excellence helped me connect with people who share the same values. Logistically, it’s about creating the art, shipping it reliably, and maintaining connections. The support and connection I’ve felt internationally have been motivating and affirming.

Promoting Art takes a lot of Energy Beyond just Creating it. What has that Experience been Like for You?

Promoting art is intense. It’s not just painting, you have to manage branding, packaging, shipping, content creation and communication with clients. Early on, it felt like juggling multiple roles at once. But when you have a clear purpose and focus, it becomes rewarding. The process is crazy, but seeing people connect with your work makes it worthwhile.

You’ve Spoken about Purpose being Your Driving Force. Can You Tell us More about that Motivation?

My dad passed away on my birthday in 2020, and it had always been my dream to make him proud and have him witness my journey. Since then, my mom has been my inspiration. Seeing her happy with every success, every award and every connection in my career keeps me going. That purpose pushes me through challenges and motivates me to keep creating.

How has Your Art Evolved Since You Started Professionally?

You can’t stay in one lane as an artist, creativity is unpredictable. Talent alone isn’t enough, you need inspiration from others, whether it’s documentaries, other artists’ work, or social media. My art has grown tremendously through exposure, connections and integrating new techniques. What I create now is far more developed than when I started, technically and conceptually.

You had to Stop Creating Art for a while Due to Surgery. How did You come Back from that?

Breaking my dominant right collarbone was terrifying, the surgery was risky, and I didn’t know if I’d paint the same way again. Recovery was physically and emotionally challenging, I even considered quitting.

I made a post on Instagram about putting down my pen and received over 100 messages from people I know and strangers around the world. Some messages were in Spanish and other languages, and I had to translate, which made me realize my work connects far beyond my immediate surroundings. That support reminded me that my struggles were temporary and not a reason to give up.

Physiotherapy went well and gradually I returned to painting. That experience reinforced resilience and reminded me why I create.

What Advice would You Give to Other Artists Facing Setbacks or Challenges?

My dad used to say, “Never allow the contingencies of yesterday’s circumstances to derail you from the rhapsody of tomorrow.” Life is unpredictable, and things often don’t go as planned. Don’t let failure or rejection stop you. Believe in tomorrow, stay focused on your purpose, and keep creating. Your effort today builds the foundation for your success tomorrow.

Finally, what do You Hope People take Away from Your Work?

I hope they feel seen, celebrated and included. Art is a way to tell stories that resonate, uplift, and inspire. With every painting, I want people to feel a sense of pride and to see the excellence and resilience I celebrate in the Black experience. Ultimately, it’s about building a bridge between my vision as an artist and the lives of those who engage with my work.