Meet AJ Lavilla | Self taught street artist & artrepreneur.

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

Hi AJ, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic or creative career because I believe that this is my gift, wether its painting or creating content to help busineses grow through social media in a creative way is what I do best.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? – I got to where im at today professionally through hard work, many lonely and sleepless nights. It wasn’t easy neither did I expect this journey to be however it’s worth it every second every minute every day! I respect the very few that have survived in their quest to living their dream. If this was easy everyone would’ve done it! Then again, its journey is the best challenging part.

If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way.
– I overcame the challenges with strong belief in myself, I pray to God to give me strength, guidance and good health. I visualize where I want to go, printing out where I see myself in 5-10 years collage them, exercise, writing my goals down.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are:
to consistently work on #1 mind – having a strong mindset is important. I read self help books (rich dad poor dad, millionaire mindset to name a few) to help strengthen my mindset.
2) health – I hate this but I show up anyway, I work out 30 mins a day, 30 mins walking my dog every morning.
3) spirit – I pray, I sometimes meditate, I journal and check in with my emotions, gratitude list every morning.

What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
– I want the next generation of dreamers to know that even if you come from a small island such as mine, you can have an impact and inspire the world through your art.

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.
If my best friend was visiting NYC I would take them to Woodside for Filipino food, Astoria for lounge/hookah bars, Brooklyn Museum, MOMA, or Whitney Museum. Bronx or Queens night markets on summer. Manhattan beach to cool down & Coney Island at night for ghetto/outdoor amusement.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Shoutout to my family my parents & siblings for their love, encouragement & support throughout my journey. My business partner Rivy at Lil Daydream NYC.

Website: www.ajlavilla.nyc

Instagram: @ajlavilla