Today we’d like to introduce you to Ingrid Anderson

Hi Ingrid, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.

My entrepreneurial journey started when I was just a kid. Picture this: little Ingrid, armed with imagination and some wild ideas, creating secret candy concoctions to sell to my friends :D

Among my dubious candy enterprises, I started drawing at a young age and had the privilege of attending private art classes after school. Those classes fueled my creativity and gave me a solid foundation in the arts. In high school I discovered textile arts and fell in love with sewing and crocheting. I taught myself everything, often spending late nights with a needle, thread, and a lot of determination.

My journey into makeup artistry was a bit of a detour but a welcome one. As I perfected my sewing and crocheting skills, I began to appreciate the artistry involved in makeup. Fast forward eight years, and I’ve built a successful career as a makeup artist, working with some pretty amazing clients.

Intertwined with my love for art has always been a passion for event production. Right out of college, a friend and I started an arts and music production company. It was an exciting time, but after a year, my friend decided to pursue a different path. I took a break from event production to reassess and realign my goals.

It wasn’t until 2019 that I jumped back into event production with a bang. I created the Human Horse Races, an annual Thanksgiving Day event that has become a beloved New Orleans tradition. It’s a wild, interactive arts experience that brings the community together in the most unique way possible.

So here I am today, blending my love for the arts with my entrepreneurial spirit, creating opportunities for others, and building traditions that make New Orleans an even more vibrant place to live. It’s been a wild ride, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

No, it definitely hasn’t been smooth sailing. But hey, we don’t learn, grow, or improve if it’s all easy, right? My college years were pretty reckless; I wasn’t thinking much about my future. It wasn’t until a couple of years after college, when I got pregnant, that I began to settle down and consider a solid career path. I’m a self-starter through and through, figuring out how to make ends meet as I went along.

Without a doubt, my partner of 8 years has been instrumental in helping me pursue my goals. People say it takes a village, and they’re right. Before I met him, I was a single mother with all my goals and dreams on the back burner. Since meeting Kevin, he has given me the space and grace to take that leap of faith and really pursue what I am passionate about. His support has been invaluable, allowing me to chase my dreams while knowing I have a strong foundation to rely on.

Any advice I could give people is to find your support system. Not every day will be peaches and jam, and knowing you have people who will have your back and lend an ear makes those tough days all the more bearable. Surround yourself with those who believe in you and your vision. It’s amazing how much a strong support network can lift you up, keep you grounded, and help you navigate the bumps along the way.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

I think what I’m most known for is my makeup artistry and the Human Horse Races. My forte is fantasy makeup, and people recognize me for my creative and visionary looks. I’m a visionary at heart, always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with the right tools and some imagination.

But there’s another side to me – I’m also a big comedian. I love making people laugh through the things I create. You can really see that in the Human Horse Races. It’s this wild, hilarious event where people dress up as horses and race against each other with their “jockey” friends on their backs. It’s a spectacle that never fails to bring joy and laughter to everyone involved.

What makes it so special for me is creating these unforgettable moments in people’s lives. Moments that might just transform the way they think and move about this world. That’s what makes me happiest – knowing that my work not only entertains but also has a lasting impact on people.

I’m most proud of how the Human Horse Races has become a beloved tradition in New Orleans. It’s not just about the laughter and fun; it’s about bringing the community together in a way that’s truly unique. What sets me apart is my ability to blend art with humor and community spirit, creating experiences that are both memorable and meaningful.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?

First and foremost would be my partner, Kevin McDunn. He has been there for me and my son in every way imaginable, giving me the space and time to follow my dreams. Kevin’s support has been unwavering, and his belief in me has been a major driving force behind my success.

Another big mentor is Jared Zeller, the founder of Bayou Boogaloo here in New Orleans. Jared has sat down with me countless times to answer my innumerable questions about creating large events. He has shown so much care and grace, and I am incredibly appreciative that there are people ahead of me who are willing to lift up those coming up behind them.

Speaking of teammates, I have had the pleasure and honor of having many friends support and contribute to making the Human Horse Races possible. Meesh Villaire has been by my side since the inaugural HHR, providing invaluable support and dedication. Other key players include Trishell Joffrion, Lauren Eschbaucher, Mark Venczel, and so many others who have been instrumental in making this event a reality.

Like I said, it truly takes a village for any endeavor to be a success. I am deeply grateful for everyone who has been part of my journey, cheering me on, offering advice, and putting in the hard work to bring our shared vision to life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.humanhorseraces.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ingridvictoria_mua/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558827729926
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GNOSocialArtsNetwork
• Other: https://humanhorseraces.betterworld.org/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3gvM4Jz1M57DnwUHoAmPBMCMUzizSYw1IbTUPTPvHva3vSTtk88liC-V0_aem_Tpi7-6u2DOMmZPetS9fv0A