Maya’s Blog

Here I share insights into my writing journey and the creation of my novel, Painting Celia. These posts offer a deeper understanding of the book, revealing the symbolism, character development, and lyrical language that define my work. They also explore my process of balancing introspection and action, crafting authentic characters, and navigating the ebb and flow of creativity. At least, they explain how I try to do all that!

I hope my perspective inspires and encourages you on your own creative journey. And maybe, to pick up the book!

 

a painting of a young Latina woman crossing the finishing line in a foot race

I Heard You’re Writing a Book. When Will It Be Finished?

Step into the world of writing a novel, where 'I should be editing' is the anthem and 'finished' is a word always on the horizon.

» Read the full post
a painting of sparkling blue water from the bottom of a swimming pool

Blue Is More Than a Color

What is color symbolism in literature? Read how the color blue takes on multiple meanings in Painting Celia.

» Read the full post
headshot of a smiling black man with a shaved head, in front of an abstract painting of blue and pink ceramics

Stop Honoring the Rules on Bisexuality Awareness Day

Bisexual pride is not just an identity, but a story. Witness its echoes in the lives of my characters.

» Read the full post
a painting of a woman in a robe, painting.

The Rebel Muse

Ever wondered 'What makes a muse?' They're more than just a spark of inspiration. They've got their own flame.

» Read the full post
a painting of a girl looking at an empty pair of shoes

Father’s Day Without Dad

As Father's Day approaches, some of us have only memories to honor. And how complex they can be! Even in their absence, fathers continue to shape us.

» Read the full post
a painting of a daybed at night, light from a window falling across it

Deleted Scene: Getting to Know You

Bonus content from Painting Celia – exclusively for blog readers! Celia and León start learning about each other.

» Read the full post
an image of a taco truck parked in downtown Los Angeles

Deleted Scene: The Taco Truck

Bonus content from Painting Celia – exclusively for blog readers! Andrew and León discuss inspiration over tacos.

» Read the full post
headshot of a somber part-asian woman with chin-length hair, in front of an abstract painting suggesting a swimming pool at night

Celia Torres

Quiet Celia knows she has to start living out loud but is unable to find her voice. Embarrassed by surprise wealth, she has the whole world before her but no idea how to fit into it.

» Read the full post
headshot of a focused latino man with shoulder-length black hair, in front of an abstract painting suggesting a sunset

León Alejo-Rios

My beloved flawed León. My expressive hyper-focused egoist. More than one reader has described him as an innocent mysogynist, and they're not wrong. He's got some growing up to do!

» Read the full post
headshot of a smiling black man with a shaved head, in front of an abstract painting suggesting clay in a kiln fire

Andrew Neal

Magnetic Andrew is confident in his own skin, not afraid to be himself. He's experienced judgment and chooses to be the change he wants to see.

» Read the full post
headshot of an alert caucasian woman with blonde hair, in front of an abstract painting suggesting yellow birds

Kelsey Martin

Kelsey doesn't just light up rooms with her glowing personality. She also draws insightful conclusions and bluntly illuminates them for everyone else.

» Read the full post
headshot of a bespectacled caucasian man with curly graying hair, in front of an abstract painting suggesting a blue scarf

Trevor Hansen

Quiet Trevor is the Dad of the group, willing to put in the work himself and aware others could do the same. His rare quips are amusing and cut to the heart of it.

» Read the full post
three-story brick warehouse in Los Angeles

Incubadora

Step into Incubadora de Artistas, where creativity blooms and young artists find inspiration. Experience a world of color, passion, and support.

» Read the full post