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

Hi Caleb, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
For most artists and creatives, “choosing” to pursue your passion isn’t much of a choice. I have considered and attempted other career paths, but creativity for artists is as essential as oxygen or sustenance in that without it, we cannot survive. This path is not for the weak of heart or the soft of skin but when creativity is the language that you were given, there isn’t much of a choice other than to speak. As for my personal motivation, I believe, now more than ever, the truest form of healing, connection, and hope comes from great art. Throughout history, artists have led the cultural and spiritual revolutions of our societies. Now that we’ve been given one of the most unique, challenging, and transformative periods of human existence, the need for great art and great artists is paramount. At my core, I simply hope to be a contributor in the storytelling, healing, and evolution of our culture. And in the process, I hope to create an experience for others that helps them in a way that I have been helped by so many wonderful musicians and artists that have come before me. I think that so much of the narrative that has been fed to our species collectively has only served to divide us into warring factions and shield us from the truth: We are all one tribe.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Like many creatives, my art comes through many mediums. Both music and photography have been a huge part of my life and choosing between the two was like choosing between two parts of myself so I instead chose to pursue both. With this insane year coming to end, what I’m most excited for is just to get back on stage and share my art in the world again.

As for what sets me apart, I think it’s the same thing that separates any artist from another. We, as creatives, have a channel from the universe that gives us our inspiration and our voice. They are all unique and different and it really is just a matter of preference in terms of which channel you enjoy. Whether it’s music or photography, my focus is always the stories, experiences and magic that connects us to each other and to the universe.

The one thing I have to say about how I got to where I am today is that you just have to continue to stay the course. There have been so many bumps in the road and I’ve made countless mistakes but the important thing is to be accepting, understanding and gentle with yourself through the process because it’s all part of it. The only thing that will ever stop you from reaching your potential is you, so don’t let your beliefs create walls and remember that life is happening for you, not to you. Get a group of friends and mentors that inspire and believe in you and lean on them when you feel like you can’t carry on. Your community is everything so make sure it’s one that you love and can depend on.

The only thing I want people to know about my story is that it’s not about me. It’s about us. All of us and how the more that we come together, hold space for each other, and love each other, the more incredible life will be. My artist name (Ghostribe) comes from the idea that in death, we are all same. In life it’s no different. The world is designed to keep us apart and make us believe that we are different from one another. Different sexes, races, countries, religions, preferences, politics. So many ways to feel different. The truth is that we are all experiencing the same world, the same emotions, and have the same blood running through our veins. There is only one tribe.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
It’s hard to say what a full weeks itinerary would be but it would definitely include Malibu for a beautiful hike and a quiet beach day, ramen from Tatsu, vegan brunch from Little Pine, a show at The Echo, a night out drinking at Good Times or Harvard and Stone, Guisados tacos, a night at the comedy store, a bike ride in Venice, a trip down to Joshua Tree and a bonfire on the beach.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Theres honestly just too many people to thank in a quick blurb so to every teacher, friend, artist and family member that has touched my life, I would not be able to make the art I make or be the man I am without you. I am now and will always be eternally grateful.

Website: www.caleb-auston.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calebauston/ https://www.instagram.com/ghostribe_/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caleb-auston/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=18722201

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1oqHOxy7NZh0IsI2chygSw

Image Credits
Photos of me taken by DL Guerra and Herman Gambhir Models in my photos: Herman Gambhir, Alisa Galper, August McQueen, Julian Kostov and Alana Boden

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.