New York artist living in El Paso helps others heal through art
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) — Yolanda D. Hoffmeister is no stranger to pain and grief, but the local humanitarian continues to use art to guide her own healing journey.
She was born and raised in New York, but now lives in El Paso after her veteran husband retired.
At 5 years old, her grandfather taught her the art of painting. She applied to art school but faced rejection.
“It’s hard for me to talk about that sometimes, but when I was rejected by even art galleries as well. It was very frustrating and sad and also pushed me. It pushed me to not give up,” the artist told ABC-7.
Her younger cousin insisted Hoffmeister continue her art and not give up. Following her cousin’s death, rather than giving up, Hoffmeister found the strength to continue pursuing art.
“It was devastating. It truly was because she was such a lighthearted spirit. And she can brighten up any room,” Hoffmeister said.
On Sept. 11, 2001, Hoffmeister lived in New York. Following the deadly terrorist strikes on the World Trade Center, she saw heavy smoke and felt the area tremble.
She decided to give back to firefighters in New York. Hoffmeister started creating art pieces and donating them.
Since then, she donated hundreds of works to first responders and non-profits. She said creating art and giving it to others has helped her overcome challenges and helped her in her own healing journey.
“It’s meant to help people. It’s meant to make people feel good,” she said. “Art is very therapeutic. It allows me to express myself. Take time to focus on my healing process of whatever I went through.”
Her goal is to help others find healing. Hoffmeister hopes those who faced criticism or rejection will persevere.
“They can look at one of my pieces of work and get inspired to either not give up or to remember there’s always hope,” she said.
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