We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful La’Porscha Smith. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with La’Porscha below.

La’Porscha, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I knew I wanted to pursue a career with my creativity when I started to paint in my free time and watching lots of YouTube videos. I mean……I would literally paint for hours and learn so much from consistently painting. I went from painting cartoons with little to know concept of how colors worked to understanding color theory and creating more portrait style fine art.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am a multidisciplinary self-taught artist in Charlotte,N.C. I have always been a creative and gave myself the space to really hone in on my creative freedom. I started painting in 2016 and I have been painting ever since. I mainly use acrylic paint, clay and dry media when I express myself. I create works that focus on spirituality, well being and empowerment. I am most proud of the growth of my portrait work and how it makes the black community feel uplifted and encouraged to have open dialogue about those important conversations. I offer prints, original canvas pieces, vinyl stickers, sculptures and more. I also offer mentorship at my studio space at a weekly rate with focus on color theory with portraits/anatomy.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

One lesson would be to NOT undervalue my work and growth. I underpriced some smaller sculptures I had for sale and I was told to up the prices which I was reluctant to do. Maybe a week later I sold a few and was shocked for whatever reason. The real lesson is to be confident in your work and pricing and stay firm on it. Sometimes we worry too much about the individuals that don’t appreciate art or value it. Just remember there is some one who will see the value in your work and pay your prices with no hesitation. I almost sold myself short with my sculpture art and I’m thankful I didn’t.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

It’s a great feeling showing the world my messages about self love, connection to the earth, mental health awareness,etc I hear so many heart warming stories that just make me feel seen and heard. The stories..,.. they push me to keep telling stories with my art that so many can reflect upon.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.laporschasstudio.com
• Instagram: Grittygalart
• Linkedin: La’Porscha Smith
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@laporschasstudio?si=jyyX0woHdM1bm760
• Other: laporschasstudio.bigcartel.com