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

Hi Tara, why did you pursue a creative career?
Being creative, being artistic was always a part of me. I feel as though I don’t really know how to be anything else. There was a period of time where I thought about being a teacher, a curator, or even an archeologist, but even those things are surrounded in art or some form of it. I don’t feel completely me without being creative in some way. Whether that’s painting, sewing, illustrating, or all of the above. Being creative make me who I am.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
It still can be hard for me to talk about my art or describe it. Recently I was describing to a friend and I think if I had to sum it up it would be fantasical, surreal, and a focus on women of color. I like to combine my love of Fantasy/Sci-Fi with my approach to the significance of representation. I think what sets me apart is how I combine different or unexpected things in my art. And I think it would also be that also dabble in multiple things such as Cosplay, Fashion Illustration, and Design.

The journey has definitely not been easy and there are plenty of goals on my list that I have yet to accomplish, but I also have accomplished things over the past couple years that have motivated me to keep going and growing. I’ve learned alot about not only the art industry, but also about myself. Learned how to set aside time for art practice, but also not to push myself so much that I burn out. I realized how important building your own community can be for your career, but for your lifestyle.

I want the world to see me through what I create. See how my mind works when I’m unable to express it in words, to see my dreams, and goals realized. I want them to see that I didn’t give up on my creativity, that I kept nurturing myself, and pushing myself to try new things and reach new heights.

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.
Wow, where to begin. I feel like there’s so much to experience in LA and I’m still finding more hidden gems the more I explore. In terms of food the Grand Central Market is one of the best places, there’s a type of food for everyone there in addition to a vendor market they have downstairs on the weekends. Would also suggest the Vegan Street Fair is amazing, even if you’re not Vegan I recommend it because there are some really great options. Another would be Smorgasburg in downtown LA. Lots of food options and also shopping in one spot, every Sunday.

I’m big on museums so the Broad, MOCA, LACMA, and Academy Museums are a must in my opinion. There’s also different galleries throughout the city that I feel are always popping up with new and fun exhibits. During the summer the Hollywood Bowl is alot fun and they always have some sort concert or show going on to enjoy. If you’re a movie buff like me I would also recommend going to Universal Studios or the Warner Bros Studio tour. If you love good music and drinks the Dime is must. I also love 3rd Base and Library Bar

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to take this time to shoutout my Book Club. They have made my laugh when I needed it, made me seen, supported, and like I’ve found my tribe of nerds. Love them so much. Also to my crew of women, my sisters who have just been there for me through thick and thin. I don’t think I can ever thank them enough for all they’ve done for me.

Website: www.tarapatrice.com

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/taraplegall

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

Image Credits
Photos taken by me

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