We had the good fortune of connecting with Presa Hall and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Presa, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The key to my success has been my unwavering perseverance and determination. Believing in myself, even when faced with daunting challenges, has been essential. As a woman in a male-dominated field, I often had to overcome prejudice, ensuring that my work ethic and portfolio were strong enough to secure opportunities. I have consistently taken on projects that push my boundaries and foster my growth as an artist, including creating artwork for major hotels such as Marriott and Omni and painting murals over 100 ft. These projects have not only expanded my skills but also solidified my place in the art world.
I have never shied away from massive walls, difficult surfaces, or unconventional types of art. Where others might see obstacles, I see opportunities for innovation and expression. My willingness to tackle these challenges head-on has set me apart and allowed me to continually evolve as an artist. By overcoming the barriers in a male-dominated field, I am now honored to be a woman achieving significant milestones, setting an example for the next generation that women can excel in this type of work and do it exceptionally well.
My goal is to be an example of what a woman can achieve in my field, to create art that resonates with people, promotes unity, and enhances the environment around it. Through my work, I strive to contribute positively to the community and inspire others to see the world through a lens of creativity and hope.
This combination of perseverance, self-belief, embracing challenges, and a commitment to the healing power of art has been the cornerstone of my success and the success of my brand.
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.
Being one of the pioneering female mural artists in the United States and receiving recognition at Miami Art Basel in 2012 for an 18 ft x 50 ft mural in Wynwood, Miami, were significant milestones. These achievements wouldn’t have been possible without the people who uplifted, supported, and believed in my vision.
My creative process is deeply personal, often transforming emotions and experiences into visual art. Each piece tells a story, reflecting my journey and the stories of those who inspire me. Overcoming challenges, such as scaling large buildings, working with difficult surfaces, and navigating the business side of art, has been crucial to my growth and success.
I am deeply inspired by other people and their journeys, and painting portraits has become an integral part of my work. I often use art to commemorate and honor individuals’ lives. Since my teenage years, I have received portrait commissions to memorialize people. I love being able to honor someone’s life and give their loved ones something to cherish.
In my new series launching this year, I strive to highlight female divinity and empowerment. The artwork often features serene poses set against elements such as the moon and sun and incorporates symbolism through colors, flora, and animals. This series aims to showcase the unique strengths of femininity and our connection to the nurturing environment. There is a political movement attached to the walls and canvas I paint, often with messages of empowerment, education, history, gender, and equality. I believe in the power of art to heal and bring harmony to public spaces. My goal is to create art that resonates with people, promotes unity, and enhances the environment around it.
The joy of seeing how my art impacts others—from inspiring children to hearing that my work moved someone to tears—is incredibly rewarding. These cherished moments drive me to continue creating. Additionally, my work aims to contribute to the community by beautifying public spaces and sparking conversations through my murals.
My signature and logo, which features my name within a heart, symbolizes that my art comes from my heart. I am grateful for every person who has been part of this journey, and I am dedicated to giving back through my art, inspiring future generations, and continuing to create with passion and purpose.
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 my best friend was visiting Los Angeles for a week, I would plan an itinerary that highlights the vibrant art scene, diverse dining experiences, and unique attractions the city has to offer. Here’s what our week might look like:
Day 1: Exploring Downtown LA and Arts District
• Morning: Start the day with a tour of the public mural works throughout the city and the Arts District. We’ll admire the incredible street art and graffiti.
• Lunch: Stop by a local café for some delicious bites in the Arts District.
• Afternoon: Visit The Broad, a contemporary art museum featuring works by Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama.
• Evening: Dinner at The Little Door, where we can enjoy exquisite cuisine while watching an artist live paint.
Day 2: Beach Day and Comedy Night
• Morning: Spend the morning at Venice Beach, soaking up the sun and exploring the boardwalk.
• Lunch: Head to Fisherman’s Village for a waterfront lunch at Whiskey Red’s, enjoying fresh seafood and beautiful marina views.
• Afternoon: Explore the Venice Canals and enjoy a leisurely stroll.
• Evening: Catch a random pop-up comedy show in the city for some laughs.
Day 3: Art and Culture
• Morning: If it’s raining, we’ll visit one of LA’s top art museums, like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) or the Getty Center.
• Lunch: Grab a quick bite at a local café near the museum.
• Afternoon: Continue exploring the museum’s exhibits.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner and an intimate live jazz concert at Velvet Moon Jazz at Rden or Bar Lis at the Thompson Hotel, events by my friend and entrepreneur Gilles who runs the French Tuesdays.
Day 4: Bike Ride and Scenic Views
• Morning: Rent bikes and ride to Inspiration Point at Will Rogers State Historic Park for stunning views and a bit of exercise.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the park.
• Afternoon: Continue exploring the trails and scenic spots at the park.
• Evening: Relax and have dinner at a cozy restaurant back in the city.
Day 5: Shopping and Relaxation
• Morning: Visit Erewhon to marvel (and gasp) at the prices and enjoy some high-quality snacks.
• Lunch: Have a light lunch at a trendy café in the area.
• Afternoon: Spend some time shopping and exploring local boutiques.
• Evening: Have dinner at Sugarfish, renowned for its delicious sushi, before heading to Naughty Pig in West Hollywood for a fun night of karaoke.
Day 6: A Day Trip to Laguna Beach
• Morning: Drive down to Laguna Beach for a day of coastal beauty and relaxation.
• Lunch: Enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the beachside restaurants.
• Afternoon: Explore the art galleries and shops in Laguna Beach.
• Evening: Return to LA and have a relaxed dinner at Élephante Restaurant in Santa Monica, savoring the Mediterranean-inspired dishes and ocean views.
Day 7: Final Day of Relaxation and Reflection
• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local brunch spot.
• Midday: Reflect on the week with a visit to a serene park or botanical garden.
• Afternoon: Visit any missed spots or favorites from earlier in the week.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at Toca Madera Restaurant in West Hollywood, reminiscing about the week’s adventures over modern Mexican cuisine.
Throughout the week, we’d encounter some of the most fun, interesting, and exciting people and places in LA, from the vibrant art and cultural scenes to the serene beaches and scenic parks. This itinerary ensures a memorable and enriching experience for my best friend.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe so much of my success to the unwavering support of my family, particularly my husband. His encouragement has been a cornerstone of my journey. From running to my aid when I need coffee or clean paintbrushes, to packing the car with tools for the next job, he has been my rock. He’s always there, offering a second opinion and lending his strength whenever needed.
I also want to recognize the continued support from my clients and art collectors who have stood by me throughout the years. Their belief in my work has been invaluable. The gallerists who brought me into their fold, giving me wall space and platforms to show and discuss my work, played a significant role during the many years I showcased my art in New York and at Art Basel in Miami. Recently, the loving support from my clients in Los Angeles has been incredible.
In my early years, I worked solely through referrals, and because of these wonderful people, I was able to build a network of followers who have continued to support and purchase my work. Without them, I wouldn’t have been able to keep going. I even received money from these supporters for my birthday to buy art supplies, which, as any artist knows, are incredibly expensive and always in short supply.
While there are too many people to name individually, and out of respect for their privacy, I want to extend a big thank you to all my art lovers, friends, and supporters. And a special thank you to my loving husband, who has been my biggest help and my constant source of strength and inspiration.
Website: www.artbypresa.com
Instagram: @artbypresa
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLrcGvx7gYmjOuoAhLVbWaw
Other: email: info@artbypresa.com
Image Credits
For the one Photo of me sitting and painting the canvas file named Frida Kahlo shoot by Zack Patrick. Please credit Zack Patrick. The personal photo of me in front of the three canvas paintings (standing in the photo), the photo of me in front of the mural of the spirit of Sofia mural, and the Omni Hotel OKC mural are all by Alexandre de Matos.