Today we’d like to introduce you to Lasalle.
Lasalle, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started creating as a way to process what I was feeling when I didn’t always have the words. Art became a tool for understanding myself and my relationships. I studied at Valdosta State University, where I began thinking more seriously about how my work could live outside of myself and in public spaces. That led me to working on public murals, which shifted how I saw art less private, more communal. Creating work that people encounter in their everyday lives pushed me to be more intentional and vulnerable. Where I am now feels like a continuation of that journey: trusting my instincts, telling real stories, and letting the work grow alongside me.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. There was a period where I felt lost and had to pick back up where I left off. Living with family came with its own challenges, and working jobs that took so much of my time made it hard to create without constantly worrying about bills. The pandemic actually gave me the space to finally step into the field and begin building my career. There have also been moments where I felt my queerness affected how people viewed my work, and applying for murals and grants only to face rejection can be discouraging and make you want to give up. It’s been lonely at times, but also exciting, especially when the rewards I get start to feel promising.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I started out specializing in drawing and painting, which was my main foundation. Over time, my work has become more experimental, and now I’m considered multidisciplinary. I work with textile art, videos (still learning), installations basically exploring different fields and ways to express ideas. I’m most proud when people tell me what my art means to them and how it makes them feel. Being able to give a visual voice to the Black queer community, which is so prominent in Atlanta, is really meaningful to me.
I don’t really think about setting myself apart from others. I just try to do what I want and explore the styles and mediums I’m drawn to. A lot of it has been done before, but I move according to what’s in front of me and try to adapt to changes. I focus on following my instincts and letting the work evolve naturally.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
The world is always changing, from bad, to worse, to okay, to “this was a good year.” Success looks different depending on where you are and where you are going. Don’t compare yourself to other artists. One minute it is about yellow, the next it is about blue. Try not to pigeonhole yourself or let others do it for you. Be mindful of social media and of the people around you, especially those who focus on what you lack because they cannot see your vision yet.
You will hear a lot of opinions, see fake smiles, and experience people leaving or looking down on you. Over time, that can shift into surprise and support. Move in silence, do not take everything personally, and let your growth speak for itself. Time will change you. Above all, stay kind and open. You never know who might help you along the way.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnlasalle_25
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@true17artist
- Other: https://depop.com/bmoreamazing
Image Credits
Image credit :
@quinterousss
