Meet Dominique Mouton | Writer & Producer

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

Hi Dominique, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risk is everything. Risk has played a significant role in my journey as an artist. Moving from Oakland to Los Angeles was a big risk for me, as I was leaving behind a familiar community and support system. However, it was a necessary step in order to pursue my dreams and grow as an artist. The move allowed me to connect with a larger artistic community and be exposed to new opportunities.

Once in LA, I made another leap of faith. Quitting my 9-to-5 job was a definitely a huge, scary risk. It was a stable income and provided financial security, but it was holding me back from truly dedicating myself to my creative endeavors. It was a difficult decision to make, but it has allowed me to fully immerse myself in my art and focus on developing my skills.

Overall, taking these risks has allowed me to grow and develop as an artist, and I am proud of the journey I have taken. Without taking these risks, I would not be where I am today.

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.
I draw inspiration from everywhere and anything. I believe that inspiration can come from the most unexpected places and that it is important to be open to it. As a writer, I am constantly seeking out new experiences and perspectives, whether it be through reading, watching films, traveling or listening to music. I believe that these experiences and perspectives help to shape my writing and make it unique.

At this point, I’ve lived so many different lives, and I’ve been through many challenges, but I’ve always stayed focused on the end goal. I’ve been a tutor, a barista, a babysitter, a cashier, a dog sitter, a retail employee, a concierge, a shipment clerk. a trainer at an entertainment agency and at each of those points I was the same person I am today: a writer. And working with so many people from different walks of life really provided me with a great foundation to understand human behaviors and relationships.

I truly believe that to make it as a writer, or any creative, you kinda have to be self-deluded. Obviously not in a deranged sense but I do think it’s imperative to have faith in yourself even when odds are stacked against you, when your dreams feel miles away and when you want to give up. As one writer once told me, you have to behave as if there is no plan B.

Also, there’s no shortcut to putting in the work. Painters paint. Actors act. Writers write. Doesn’t matter if no one ever sees it. Do it.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Paradise Cove in Malibu is hands down my favorite place to take people. You get almost everything you want from a visit to LA: ocean access, good food and drinks.

The Getty Museum is also a must. Not only can you see world-famous art, but the views and vibe are fantastic. I could spend hours there.

Tenets of the Trees is a cool bar with a fun, chill atmosphere and great people watching. Birds in North Hollywood is my favorite though. Lots of quirky, friendly people and you don’t really feel like you’re in *Hollywood* there.

The trails in Westlake Village / Agoura Hills are perfect for a hike and much less crowded than some of the more popular Hollywood spots.

If you’re into spiritual stuff, The Green Man Store is the perfect place to get candles, incense and other supplies.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My eighth grade English teacher, Linda Defilippi, was a pivotal figure in my journey as a writer. She was the first person to recognize my talent and potential as a writer, and her encouragement and support helped shape my belief in myself as a writer.

One moment that stands out in my mind is when she presented me with the English award at the end of the school year. As she handed it to me, she whispered “I want a copy of your first book.” That moment was a turning point for me, as it changed how I saw myself and solidified my belief in my own abilities. I will always be grateful for the impact that Mrs. Defilippi had on me as a young writer and for her encouragement and support.

Website: linktr.ee/dommouton

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/domjeamou/