We had the good fortune of connecting with Will Raojenina (WCMTL) and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Will, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
Both my parents are from Antananarivo, Madagascar. But I was born and raised in Montreal, Canada. Montreal is made up of a varied mix of races, cultures, and ethnicities from everywhere in the world. My parents chose to immigrate there in search of a better life. I grew up with friends from different countries such as Haiti, Trinidad, Philippines, Congo, Cameroun, Barbados, Bangladesh, El Salvador, etc. Growing up with all these cultures helped me love everyone and discover and appreciate the different cultures. Looking at my parents grinding hard for us in a new country and seeing all the other immigrants doing the same influenced me to be a hard worker. I recently moved to LA a few months ago and loved to see the different cultures here too!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My artwork is inspired by my love of God and others, overcoming my trials, remaining optimistic, music, fashion, the culture of Madagascar, and the multiculturality of my hometown of Montreal. I focus on the lessons I learned from my trials and my resilience to make me stronger.

I use art as a way to express positivity and inspire others. What sets my art apart is the unique texture that I use, a mix of paint and mixed media that I meticulously build up layer after layer. That represents all the emotions that kept building up during my trials but turned into something beautiful because they made me a stronger person.

My highly textural original artworks are made to inspire others and are known for positive messaging and playful figures on intricate abstract backgrounds. I want people to relate to my art!

I currently have an online video exhibition titled Better Days Ahead. I invite everyone to head to my website www.wcmtl.com and view it. The message that I want the world to know is: “If you look at my art and it makes you smile, get you lost in deep thoughts, or takes you away from a negative state of mind, as an artist, I feel accomplished.”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am still new in Los Angeles and still have much discovery to do. I moved to LA during the pandemic. One of my favorite things to do in LA is hiking. I am not used to going on beautiful trails above the mountains. Runyon Canyon is my favorite! I also love going to Laguna 1000 steps Beach. I am looking forward to exploring Los Angeles!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
No doubt I give an ultimate shout-out to my wife, Amber. She has always supported and encouraged me through the ups and downs. She is my number one motivator and supporter! If you have dogs, go check out her little organic dog treats business on IG at @ambeezydogtreats

Website: www.wcmtl.com

Instagram: @wcmtl

Facebook: @wcmtl

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