Meet Lola Rose: MUA / Educator / Drag Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Lola Rose and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lola, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Growing up gay and the only son in a second generation Chicano family in Southern California was the darkest time of my life. From youth to my mid-twenties, the omnipresent pressure to succeed and defy socioeconomics while maintaining a calm and confident “machismo” disposition was often times suffocating. With my “dirty 30” rapidly approaching, I was in the best shape of my life, about to be engaged, professionally successful and yet I was on the verge of asphyxiation. You see, the only time I found myself able to breathe freely was when I was alone. In secret, creating. Creating an ever evolving piece of moving art. A passion project that housed every ounce of heartache and regret in my life. A meticulously crafted self-portrait that inevitably saved my life. When I created Lola Rose, my drag persona I was finally able to inhale all of the pain of my adolescence and exhale joy. The birth of Lola Rose not only granted me the strength and confidence to finally live my truth but it also allowed me the first-hand perspective on how the transformative power of drag can bring an abundance of happiness and to so many people. This is why I gave up everything to pursue a creative career in the beauty industry. As the Manager of a reputable high-end salon and the Director of Artistry and Education for a dazzling Indie cosmetic brand, I have truly been able to find peace in my heart as I am able to touch and help so many people find their confidence and power during these challenging times.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a bearded Drag Queen trying to make my way in the WeHo scene way back when, I certainly had some roadblocks ahead of me. Even though Lola empowered me, often times I would feel defeated and questioned what I was doing. “Is this worth it?” “Do they even get me?” I wanted to give up so many times but I couldn’t ignore that spark burning inside me. There were countless nights of “work for tips” gigs where after the cost of the look and Uber fares to and from I would come out loosing money. But there were even more priceless moments when I knew without a doubt that Lola was somehow able to touch a person’s heart that kept me going. After years and years of pushing my creativity in order to adapt to my audiences, I was simultaneously honing my technical skills and building a reputation for my artistry which I ultimately got where I am today. And while I am not pursuing the exact profession that I originally sought out, I couldn’t be happier. The point being is that through resilience, passion, and a sprinkle of risk taking, anyone can find the career that they are uniquely meant for.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
We would definitely need to eat our way through Grand Central Market at least once, maybe twice. It’s absolutely one of my favorite things to do with guests visiting from out of town. I also love a live theatre moment so a favorite of mine is cocktails at Perch then a fun red line adventure to Pantages for a musical followed by desserts and espresso at Alcove. OK I think I just described my perfect date. Any takers? Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many heroes in my story that have gotten me to where I am today. Each holds a special place in my heart and deserves a quick shoutout. To Annie Grace Author of This Naked Mind, for my sobriety. To Rita, for instilling resilience To Marc for helping me reclaim my power and worth. To Chelsea, for supporting my craft whenever I wanted to give up. To Breanna, for picking me up, every time I fall. To Mom and Dad, for letting go of religious and cultural ideologies to love their son.

Website: https://linktr.ee/xoxololarose

Image Credits
Lola Rose