Meet LaChanda Gatson | Hair Artist & Cultural Content Creator

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

Hi LaChanda, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a creative hair artist and content creator. My design aesthetic can be both artist & architectural based. I’m known for stying afro futuristic looks. I achieved these looks by styling or sculpting afro-textured hair to create various avant-garde styles. I’m most proud that I have created a lane that I love while successfully thriving in it. I am where I am today, because I took a chance on me. i grateful I did. I explored the unknown and push beyond standard media interest. I’ve learned sometimes I had to bring my own seat to the table, and start the conversation. I’ve had a few challenges along the way, but they have all rerouted me into aligned spaces. One of my favorite projects has been the African American Princess series. A series of re-imagined melanated royal gems that has captured the attention of many around the world. These princesses are super special because they represent inclusion in fantasy and fairytale spaces. Spaces that normally are not included. I created the conversation. This conversation sparked the attention of mainstream media. These including Disney, Culturs Magazine, People Magazine,Good Morning America, and the Kelly Clarkston Show, just to name a few. I’m grateful for the many thank you letters for the series. they are constant reminders to keep going.

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?
I love outdoors. I love to hiking at Wildwood Cannon. Most of the time when I done I will grab lunch with wine at Castaway Restaurant located at the start/finish of the trail. Sometimes I enjoy going later afternoon to catch the sunset and gorgeous night view as well. i enjoy sound baths sessions in Malibu Hills. The location has one of the most breathtaking views. One of my favorite go to restaurant is Little Kingstons Jamaican Restaurant. I enjoy their curried dishes as well as their delicious pineapple ginger drinks. The weekends I enjoy fish and red beans and rice at Harold and Belles seafood, or the Cajun Salmon and Grits at The District by GS. Uncle Bills Pancakes on Manhattan Beach any day for brunch with a beautiful ocean view. i love riding up the coast with the top down. as you may have guessed, its the views for me. lol

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have to shout out my ancestors who many left their earthly bodies never fulfilling their dreams. I want to make them proud by continue to, break glass ceilings, build our legacy, and be their wildest dream. lol

Website: www.lachandagatson.com

Instagram: www.Instagram.com/lachandagartistry

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lachanda-gatson-a2954412

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hairbylachanda

Image Credits
First photo Photography: Nikki Rich Photography Middle Photos (children) Photography: Creative Soul Photo Last Photo (self) Photography: Lenn M. Vaughn