Meet La’Porscha Smith | Self taught Multidisciplinary Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with La’Porscha Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi La’Porscha, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
Well….., there are quite a few things that make me happy. I absolutely looooove food, its just so good and it’s a form of art I just respect because there are so many cultures and ways to pair flavors. Creating art that I’m hyper focused on makes me happy as well because it happens so effortlessly and I know my passion has created some great energy that id normally lack after life’s duties such as work and errands. Since I love nature soooo much it’s a happy place for me, it allows me the peace to clear my mind and also receive clarity along my spiritual journey. Last but not least being surrounded by family and friends that are supportive, loving and hilarious!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
With my artwork I focus on black women and how our health is important, emotionally, mentally and physically. I want black woman to see their rich skin and feel confident in it along with their crowns. My work is to uplift the community while also addressing things such as learning life’s lessons and understanding our power and our limits. I have overcome my social anxieties by continuously participating in art opportunities and conversing with those who appreciate art. One lesson that I have learned along the way is that you have to remain confident in your work whether your work gets accepted into residencies,juried art shows, galleries, etc. A lot of these potential opportunities allow you to receive feedback. With that being said, another lesson is to always reach out to see if feedback is attainable . So stay confident and reach out for feedback because it can very well help you grow as a creative and show the organization that you are passionate and eager for more opportunities.

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 were visiting we would definitely be in the camp North End area. And the camp North End area there are quite a few galleries, restaurants and other creative spaces. I personally enjoyed Leah and Louise and would love to explore the other restaurants. Camp North end has galleries which includes Dup and Swat, Goodyear Arts,etc. There is also Macfly Fresh Printing Co. and they have some awesome print designs that I love and great customer service. My favorite people to be around are the members of the growing QC Family Tree which has a plethora of amazing creatives who are down to earth, fun and unique. For me, I personally enjoy going to nature trails and hiking so we’d probably try out Crowders Mtn, Reedy Creek and McDowell Nature Preserve, to name a few.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to shout out Joanne Rogers(owner of Nine Eighteen Nine Studio Gallery) for her support of my work and the opportunities that she has brought my way and my sister Raven Smith for her support since Ive been creating art. I also want to also shout-out YouTube for the videos that have taught me so much about my techniques.

Website: www.laporschasstudio.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/grittygalart

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laporschagrittyart

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gritty.galart.1

Youtube: https://youtube.com/@laporschasstudio

Image Credits
Melvin Nix