Houston, Texas – As the lead artist and business owner of Gavi Leveaux Illustrations, Gabrielle Aguirre has navigated the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, building a name for herself in the world of live illustration.
“It’s been about a ten year journey getting to this point in my career,” Gabrielle said.
A native of Spring, Texas, Gabrielle graduated from the University of Houston with a degree in Retail and Consumer Science. Her love for fashion and art led her to various internships, working alongside runway coordinators, fashion designers, and bloggers. However, she initially questioned whether a career in the arts was a practical path.
“I really wanted a start in art but had no idea what that entailed or how I was going to go through that process but I wanted to give myself an opportunity to just go for it,” she said.
In 2021, Aguirre moved with her then-boyfriend. This move, although temporary, became a pivotal moment in her artistic journey. She launched her business, developed her first art collection, and began selling art prints while also offering logo design services.
“I started creating collections, posting on Instagram and I slowly made my way to live event planning,” she said.
The relationship didn’t pan out, but the creative juices were flowing. Gabrielle returned to Houston, using both personal and professional experiences to fuel her growth. Inspired by a New York artist, she recognized the demand for live illustration events in Houston. This insight led to a major breakthrough when she was invited to illustrate live at an event hosted by Saks. Her talent quickly gained attention, making her a sought-after feature at high-profile events.
“It feels like luck the first few times, especially the first year; but now I have momentum, I have a team now. I feel grounded, I can reflect and celebrate, so it’s been a roller coaster of emotions,” Aguirre said.
Gabrielle officially transitioned into a full-time artist and business owner in April of last year, proving that perseverance and passion can truly turn artistic dreams into reality.
Through live illustration events and creative endeavors, Gabrielle continues to leave her mark, bringing unique and personalized artistry to the fashion and business worlds. Her journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of believing in one’s craft.
Connect with Gabrille on Instagram: @Gavi.Leveaux or her website www.GaviLeveaux.com