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

Hi Andre, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Taking risks is essential to my growth as an artist. On one hand, the possibilities of creating art are limitless. On the other, I’ve felt boxed in when I categorize myself as a certain type of artist. It almost feels like I have put a box around what is meant to be infinite space. I have tendencies to compare myself to other artists, and fears that my authentic art is too different and not digestible to a large audience. When I take risks, I move beyond those fears and comparisons, and create only with the purpose of connecting to my higher self. Inevitably, this careful creation leads to impacting others, which is my main goal. For me, taking risks means saying “Fuck it– I do not care what is popular now, or what has already been done, I’m going to be 100% me in my process.” And if there isn’t a space where my art can exist, then I take on the risk of making my own. These risks have led to me many grand opportunities, positive relationships, and evolutions as an artist.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art strives to inspire people, promote sustainability, and build community. I am extremely proud to have produced drag shows that foster these goals. Though, I feel most ecstatic about my next ventures– I am in the process of creating community gathering events that involve drag, amongst other uplifting activities such as yoga and meditation. Through developing this idea, I have realized that my initial struggle as a drag artist (being too young to perform at most gigs) has turned into my greatest inspiration– fostering new spaces to exhibit this art form. I want you all to know that I am here to shift the perspective of what drag can be, and where it can be showcased. This art form not only aligns with community, but also with self growth, spirituality and awareness of our Mother Earth.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If you’re looking for, in my opinion, the most exciting weekly drag show in LA, check out Exposure Drag at the Offbeat Bar in Highland Park.

For a tranquil place to get work done or have a coffee, check out Stories Books & Cafe in Echo Park.

For sunrise or sunset nature runs, hikes, or picnics check out the beautiful Elysian Park.

Flore Vegan has some of the best vegan food this city has to offer.

If you are looking to people-watch, I know no other place than Echo Park Lake. The community there is vibrant, mostly on weekend days. The slackline park in Santa Monica is a HUGE mood too.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to shout out all of my biggest supporters and inspirations! Charli, my housemate and biggest fan. She never fails to be at every single performance I’m in, or event I produce. She is either helping me with costume malfunctions, photographing or videotaping me, or looking at me in awe. I would not have been able to thrive in my artistic journey without her support. I would also like to shoutout two of my favorite musical artists– my connection to their music has given me great inspiration. ODESZA & Sofi Tukker– I love you!

Instagram: @artxarty

Other: email: artemisxqueen@gmail.com

Image Credits
Matt Allen: @mallen.wav Charli Morachnick: @shootphotos_notguns @syzygydrag

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.