Meet Stephanie Dotson | Artist

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

Hi Stephanie, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Of late I have been so focused on my school work. I graduate June 10th with my degrees in Psychology and Sociology. The balance has been all work and no time for my passion which is my art. But being a single mom and working it’s tough. So my focus has been all work honestly. But I see the finish line so I know the the balancing scales are slowly moving back into place. Which is a great feeling. Because doing so much in your life and just seeing what you worked for come together, its so beautiful. So the change has been gradual but well worth the hardship.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
So now that I’m finished with school for the moment. I’d like to start getting back into doing my art with purpose. With fire in my heart and creativity in mind. I definitely missed being able to create and I have so many great ideas in regards to what I will be creating in the next few months. I am still a developing artist. so honestly my only challenge has been filtering out negatives and plugging in positives in my life. When I feel overwhelmed I can’t create. School has been overwhelming since Covid began. That stress on top of people fighting over food, supplies, and basic necessities. I’m going to be honest, it gave me anxiety. So, moving forward to the post Covid fight.. I want people to know me as a human being and an artist. I want to start a few organizations in Los Angeles, for the youth that are homeless, fostered or just need support or mentors. It’s a tough time for lots of people, and honestly I want to push more than just my art. I want to push my passion.I want people to look outside of themselves and treat all beings how they’d like to be treated. Because life is happening to all of us. If the youth is our future let’s make them the best possible versions of themselves, lets help them out because they need the guidance, the respect and the love.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If you’re from LA you know to show your people the Fairfax district, the Melrose shops, and the art district in downtown Los Angeles. Take them to the Holllywood sign, right at the top of the city and have food or coffee and just take in how great our city is. You’d go to 71 above and enjoy a beautiful dinner and that view is EVERYTHING. Nobu in Malibu for the vibes, Santa Monica for aesthetics and Venice for the the Love. Go on a hike and just enjoy LA. We have so many great food places and our scene is always lit.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My daughter Vida. She has motivated me to be the best possible version of myself. I remember one day she told me she wanted to be like me and I just broke down crying. I told her I would be the best possible version of myself, for her to look up to. So everything I do.. It’s with her in mind. I want my daughter to know it’s okay to have fun, to live, to make mistakes, to bounce back from those mistakes and be your best possible self, to do what makes you happy and to live YOUR LIFE FOR YOU. Not for the likes of others but for self. Be passionate about everything in your heart and let that passion guide you in life. Never walk in anyone else’s shoes because you have your own to fill. So live your life and do what you love.

Instagram: I_am SDOT