Creative Community: Ethan Cardenas
Ethan Cardenas is a Los Angeles based artist steadily making his mark in the city’s creative scene. Blending his background in design and street culture, Ethan first sharpened his eye for aesthetics while working at Bodega, a space known for its fusion of fashion, community, and culture. That early experience helped shape his approach to art, one that bridges everyday influences with bold, contemporary expression. As he carves out his place in the LA art world, Ethan continues to build a voice that is fresh, authentic, and deeply connected to the culture that raised him.
B: Take us back, what originally brought you to Bodega, and what kind of
work were you doing here at the time?
E: When I first heard about Bodega’s LA store I was looking to find a job in retail. I think a friend told me about the opportunity so I immediately applied and was able to get an interview, which then led to me being hired! At that time (2018) I was continuing to develop my art style and had such a love for fashion as well so I remember being very excited to be in a space that fostered both passions of mine.
B: Are there specific lessons, moments, or even people from your time at
Bodega that stuck with you and shaped your artistic outlook?
E: That era working at Bodega was such a great, eye opening experience for me. We had such a solid team working there - everyone was so unique and supportive. I think we all brought something special to the table. I was able to learn so much about personal style, the intricacies of clothing; silhouettes and shapes, how clothes fit, etc. Everyone had their own taste which made me appreciate individuality and confidence even more. What I loved most was that locals would come just to hang out on random days which made me feel like we were doing more than just selling clothing; we were creating community. The biggest lessons while working there were the importance of teamwork, communication, accountability and being true to yourself. Most people are looking for spaces to connect, and an epiphany I had was that, as an artist, I wanted to create spaces for people to feel welcomed.
B: When you think about this “full circle” moment, what’s the first thing that
comes to mind?
E: I’m reminded of the moments that lead up to this opportunity. I remember my commute to work; taking the redline from the valley to downtown, drawing on the subway, walking all the way down 7th to Alameda - it was on those walks where I’d think about what I’d like to do with my art. I don’t necessarily think everything happens for a reason, but it is such an amazing feeling to have been able to align with the brand that helped me find my voice as an artist.
B: Was there ever a point while you were working here where you imagined
you’d be returning one day to showcase your own work?
E: At the time it never crossed my mind. I didn’t think it was ever unachievable, but I don’t think I was in a place in my life to connect those dots. I think some of my best work comes from collaboration and so to be able to create something with a brand so near and dear is very special.
B: How does this body of work reflect where you are in your creative journey
compared to Ethan who was working here years ago?
E: I really enjoy when I’m able to create a world with a project - whether it be coming up with an art show, or working on an idea with a brand. I’d like to think that's what we did with this project. Everything feels very cohesive, like it belongs at Bodega. I am very intentional and I think I’ve always been that way, it just took a little growing for younger Ethan to become more patient. If there is one thing I’ve learned through this journey, it's that you need to have patience. This body of work feels very playful, but there is also a sense of sophistication. I was inspired by Baby Milo (Bathing Ape), Miffy, Paul Frank, and Sanrio - these designs feel like they are in that world. Maybe my take on 2000’s nostalgia.
B: If you could talk to your young self, the version of you working at Bodega,
what advice would you give him now?
E: I think I would tell him to keep at it. I know how passionate and creative that boy is, it's just a matter of working at it and not going too hard on himself. I'm very proud of the younger me for being down for the ride.
B: What do you hope people, whether they know your story with Bodega or
not, take away from experiencing this show?
E: I am slowly learning to get rid of expectations, I just hope that everyone has a nice time. I think we did a really great job working together and I’m very proud of this project. I want people to feel welcomed, look at cool stuff that came out of my brain, and maybe leave feeling inspired.
B: Do you see this show as a closing of one chapter, or the beginning of a
new one?
E: I think everything is a continuum. I am able to learn from one experience and bring that knowledge & insight into the next. I learned a lot from this project and am excited to bring that insight into my future ones.
B: What excites you most about where your art is headed after this?
E: I appreciate being able to have experiences like this to remind myself that the sky is the limit. I am taking my Art as far as I can, and in as many directions as possible. My art practice feels endless and I am so excited to continue to explore it in all sorts of different ways. All I want to do is continue to try to create things and experiences that make me happy
RSVP LINK TO ETHAN'S ART SHOW
