Meet Pamela Manning | Creative multi-hyphenate: indie filmmaker, photographer, artist, designer, and skincare brand founder.

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

Hi Pamela, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
From a young age, I was immersed in a world brimming with creativity. My father, an artist, filled our home with vibrant paintings and sculptures, each piece telling its own story. My mother, a talented clothing designer, transformed fabric into stunning garments, and I had the privilege of wearing handmade, stylish clothing throughout my childhood. Growing up in such an environment, creativity wasn’t just something I observed; it was something I lived and breathed.

Art and design were more than just hobbies in my family—they were a way of life. The creative process fascinated me, from the initial spark of an idea to the tangible creation that followed. I spent countless hours in my father’s studio, captivated by the way he could transform a blank canvas into a vivid scene that evoked emotion and thought. Similarly, watching my mother bring her designs to life taught me the importance of precision, innovation, and the joy of creating something beautiful and unique.

One particularly formative experience was helping my father build a 16-foot sailboat when I was around 12 years old. This project taught me the value of patience, craftsmanship, and collaboration. It was incredible to see a complex idea come to life through hard work and dedication, and it solidified my love for creating and building.

This upbringing instilled in me a deep appreciation for the arts and a desire to express myself creatively. I learned that art is not just about creating something visually appealing; it’s about conveying a message, telling a story, and connecting with others on a profound level. Pursuing an artistic career was a natural choice for me—it felt like a continuation of the creative journey I started in my childhood.

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.
After moving to Hollywood, CA, I immersed myself in the vibrant rock ‘n’ roll scene, joining various bands and working on stage shows for groups like W.A.S.P. My journey was profoundly influenced by people like Wendy Dio, the wife of Ronnie James Dio, who managed and mentored me for some time. Inspired by her guidance, I continued to work with other bands such as London and Rough Cutt.

My career took a significant turn when I started collaborating on music videos with now-famous director Wayne Isham. His belief in my potential led to numerous opportunities. I featured in iconic music videos such as Judas Priest’s “Turbo Lover,” Bon Jovi’s “Slippery When Wet” tour, where I performed as a mud wrestler and video vixen, Motley Crue’s “Girls, Girls, Girls,” and Dokken’s “It’s Not Love.” Sharing the stage with legendary bands like Guns N’ Roses during their “Crazy Nights” era was a thrilling experience that underscored the blend of hard work and performance art inherent in the rock industry.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been far from easy. The entertainment industry is notoriously challenging, demanding resilience, perseverance, and adaptability. Overcoming obstacles often meant pushing through rejection, long hours, and intense competition. The lessons I’ve learned along the way are invaluable: the importance of tenacity, the power of networking, and the need to constantly evolve and hone my craft.

What sets me apart is my multifaceted approach to creativity. Beyond my work in the music industry, I am an indie filmmaker, photographer, artist, designer, and founder of my own skincare brand. Each of these roles allows me to express different aspects of my creativity and connect with diverse audiences. My varied experiences have given me a unique perspective and a rich reservoir of inspiration that fuels all my projects.

I want the world to know that my journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. My brand and story are about embracing creativity in all its forms and continually striving to bring something unique and meaningful into the world. Whether through film, photography, design, or skincare, my goal is to inspire others and make a lasting impact.

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 were visiting, I’d want to give them an unforgettable experience that showcases the best of our shared interests, particularly our love for music and creativity. Here’s a week-long itinerary packed with fun, interesting, and exciting activities:

Day 1: Welcome to LA

Morning: Start with a delicious breakfast at The Griddle Cafe on Sunset Blvd. Their pancakes are legendary!
Afternoon: Head to Santa Monica Beach for some sun, sand, and surf. Walk along the iconic pier and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Evening: Have dinner at Totoraku on Pico Blvd for an exclusive Japanese dining experience. It’s a hidden gem known for its amazing food.
Day 2: Music and Memories

Morning: Visit the Grammy Museum in downtown LA to explore the history of music and enjoy interactive exhibits.
Afternoon: Take a scenic drive to Joshua Tree National Park. Spend the afternoon hiking and taking in the stunning desert landscape.
Evening: Return to LA and grab some late-night tacos at Los Tacos on Santa Monica Blvd. It’s open 24 hours and always hits the spot.
Day 3: Creative Day

Morning: Host a fun at-home karaoke session. No waiting in line, just pure fun singing your favorite tunes.
Afternoon: Offer a personalized photo shoot session or propose making a short film together. Capture creative moments and make lasting memories.
Evening: Dinner at Musso & Frank Grill on Hollywood Blvd, a historic spot with classic Hollywood charm.
Day 4: Concert Night

Morning: Enjoy brunch at The Butcher’s Daughter in Venice for a healthy, fresh start to the day.
Afternoon: Spend some time exploring the Venice Beach Boardwalk, with its eclectic mix of street performers, shops, and murals.
Evening: Attend a concert at the iconic Hollywood Bowl. There’s nothing like live music under the stars.
Day 5: Movie Magic

Morning: Take a tour of Universal Studios Hollywood. Experience behind-the-scenes magic and thrilling rides.
Afternoon: Relax with some ice cream at Salt & Straw in Larchmont Village.
Evening: Have a movie night at Arclight Cinemas in Hollywood, complete with popcorn, pizza, and all your favorite junk food.
Day 6: Exploring Local Gems

Morning: Breakfast at Blue Jam Cafe on Melrose Ave, famous for their crunchy French toast.
Afternoon: Visit LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) to see some incredible art exhibits.
Evening: Dinner at El Compadre on Sunset Blvd for some authentic Mexican cuisine, followed by drinks at The Rainbow Bar and Grill to soak in the rock ‘n’ roll history.
Day 7: Farewell LA

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely brunch at The Ivy on Robertson Blvd, known for its charming ambiance and celebrity sightings.
Afternoon: Spend the last day shopping on Rodeo Drive or exploring The Grove for some retail therapy and people-watching.
Evening: Conclude the visit with a sunset hike at Runyon Canyon for a breathtaking view of the city.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
When I went through a difficult period of abuse, I found crucial support and safety at Safe Passage (safepassagelives.org). Trish Steel, a great mentor and friend, was instrumental in helping me navigate those challenging times.
I also owe a great deal of gratitude to my past mentors Jill Ireland and Charles Bronson, Nancy Regan (RIP). They taught me invaluable lessons about life and the inner workings of Hollywood. Both Jill, and Nancy with there grace and elegance, taught me proper etiquette—how to walk correctly and even how to hold a fork and knife properly. Think of “My Fair Lady,” and that encapsulates my experience with Jill and Charles. They always made sure I was taken care of, sending me flowers at least once a month.

I’d like to thank Pete Hopkins for inspiring my creative side and giving me the opportunity to make music videos with him. Marty Whitney been a steadfast supporter, believing in me and collaborating with me on various projects over the years.

Finally, Sarah Zulauf, who owns Sarah’s Organic Gourmet, has been a valuable business partner and friend. We often exchange business ideas and tools. Sarah and I were also bandmates back in the ’80s—she played bass while I was the drummer.

Each of these individuals has played a significant role in my journey, and I am deeply grateful for their support, mentorship, and friendship.

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Twitter: https://x.com/DigitalPam

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Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalPamProductions

Image Credits
Pamela Manning