Each of my projects has a touch of magic, creativity, and productivity.

 

We discovered Soledy Lara's work after she contacted our newspaper seeking promotion and recognition for her remarkable creation. We were moved by her humility and spontaneity when she told us about a nativity scene she was displaying at her home, but which she wanted more people to see. I suggested some locations where it could be more widely exhibited. In our December 2025 edition, we featured her creative nativity scene.

 

Soledy Lara arrived in the United States in 1994, enthusiastic and with the support of a close friend who invited her to experience a change. Since then, she has undertaken countless projects, each imbued with a touch of magic, creativity, and productivity. “Once, I wanted to do something special for the birthday of a beautiful and sweet little girl I was babysitting, and I came up with the idea of ​​painting posters to decorate her party, which were very much admired. From there, my first followers, clients, and future projects emerged, most of which have been artistic creations and decorations using paints on hard materials such as ceiling murals, finishes and paintings on walls and floors, as well as on canvas, wood, and paper,” she tells us. 

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In addition to my creative work, for the past 20 years I have worked as a real estate agent, where I contribute my characteristic creativity.

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How did the idea of ​​setting up a nativity scene in your own home come about?  

The creation of this nativity scene began in 2019 as a tribute to my mother, who passed away in July of that year. She had a tradition of making it for Christmas. In a way, I wanted to continue her tradition and legacy.

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How many people help her in her selection of characters and scenes?

I make this nativity scene alone, but I have the support of loved ones who encourage me.

 

How much time do you spend on its preparation?

 I don't have it stipulated or calculated because every year I incorporate new scenes and characters, which inspires me to start earlier and thus dedicate the time that its creation deserves. 

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This work has been visited by individuals, family groups, friends, and followers. And in a very special ceremony, we celebrated its baptism thanks to Father Saul of St. Katherine Drexel Church in Weston.

 

What are your plans for your nativity scene?

I would particularly like this arduous and significant work to reach more accessible public spaces. More than just a Nativity scene, it is an artistic work that represents a large part of the life story of Jesus, beginning with the Annunciation of the Angel Gabriel to Mary, followed by Mary's visit to her cousin Elizabeth, Joseph's first dream, the marriage of Mary and Joseph, the Roman Census, the Magi in the Desert, the search for lodging in Bethlehem, the birth in the stable, Joseph's second dream, the flight, his life and development in Nazareth, his baptism in the Jordan River, and many other scenes depicted in the manger.

 

As an immigrant in this country, what has your role as an artist and creative meant to you?

Being an immigrant involves change and learning. I adapted with humility and without losing who I am. In this way, I learned to navigate a new system with great faith, mindful of my strengths and limitations, as well as the opportunities and risks I faced. Today, I feel gratitude, admiration, and respect for this great nation. 

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I can also say that as an immigrant and having lived in this country for so many years, I have strengthened and developed my artistic gift and have shaped the course of my life.  

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I feel more than grateful.

 

Those interested in visiting the nativity scene in Weston, on display until Easter, can contact Mrs. Soledy at 954-632-9488