In this Cafecito, Karina Muller chats in Spanish with Annie Reyes, for United Latinas, who shares how art, language, and reinvention transformed her life—and how they can help heal others, too.
There are stories that remind us it’s never too late to reinvent ourselves, find new passions, and build bridges through creativity and language. Annie Reyes, artist and founder of Hivedeco, is living proof of this. At 60, she has published 15 coloring books available worldwide, created art for cancer patients, and continues to inspire others through her art and her work in the Hispanic community. In this interview, Annie shares her journey of reinvention, the power of creativity, and how embracing her identity has transformed her life and the lives of others.
Highlights of Heart:
Meaningful Phrases from My Interview
“Art taught me that even when everything seems to pause, we can still create beauty and meaning in the midst of loss.”
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“Creativity is a spark we’re all born with, but life and fear can dim that spark.”
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“The more we use creativity, the stronger it gets.”
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“Art doesn’t cure illness, but it can heal the soul, offering moments of joy and connection when we need them most.”
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“The way we talk to ourselves shapes our reality.”
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“When I started speaking to myself with patience and empathy, my confidence and creativity grew.”
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“My accent isn’t a flaw; it’s my biography in sound.”
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“I’m not late—I’m arriving with history, lessons, and a tone that tells where I come from.”
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“Reinventing means honoring my journey, learning from every stage, and giving myself permission to be a work in progress.”
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“In some sports, the second half is the most important—and the most fun!”
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“Art and language are living bridges that connect us across generations and cultures.”
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“When I speak from my true voice, the impostor loses its power.”