What do you do when life stops? Create art.

Ever since I was young, I loved to tell stories, dress up in costume and put on a live performance. I loved to observe people, mimic my relatives and exaggerate stories and behaviors to make my audience laugh and feel entertained. Up until 2020, I have been uninterrupted in following my passion as a performing artist. But when the pandemic began, my type of art was canceled. No more in person auditions and acting classes. No more stand up comedy shows. No more working on set with directors, crew and my favorite, craft services. Like most creatives during lockdown, I turned to making short digital videos for TikTok and Instagram. But, there was an abyss within me and I knew the thrill I felt when performing for a live audience had disappeared. 
I became more and more paranoid about the unknown virus and had enough of the "Renegade" on TikTok. So, I wrapped myself in my thick winter scarf as my makeshift mask, sported latex gloves because I am neurotic and made a trek down Sunset Blvd. to my local Blick Art Store in West Hollywood. I purchased a starter painting kit, paper and some sparkly metallic pink paint, because I always love a little glitz. This was one of the best purchases I have made in my life.

For the past two years, I have found both refuge and joy in painting. As I painted and shared my progress online, my friends started asking me to commission artwork! Painting became just as fulfilling as performing and this realization helped me come to terms that there is more out there than what I had thought I was destined to do. I am not sure where I will go with painting, but for now it’s a hobby, form of therapy and a thrill to complete each project. 
Thankfully, my boyfriend is very supportive of this pastime, so now our living room has turned into my art gallery and a section of the kitchen is a painting studio. It's a very supportive kind of relationship, very similar to Julia Child and Paul Cushing Child. Sweet to have a hype man by your side! 
Having an outlet for expression helps us make sense of the world and how we fit in it.  I think creating and making things also grows our empathy and compassion. If you are feeling the creative spark, here are a few things that I recommend to have when beginning as a painter: 

• Acrylic Paper or Pads​
• Disposable Palate Sheets
• Basic Paint Set 
• Brushes, Palette knife and other tools, linked below 
• And perhaps a tablecloth to protect your table from the paint! 

Let me know if you give painting a try. It truly can only add more color to your life! 
xo,
​LaVon