We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ben Lewis. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ben below.
Ben, appreciate you making time for us and sharing your wisdom with the community. So many of us go through similar pain points throughout our journeys and so hearing about how others overcame obstacles can be helpful. One of those struggles is keeping creativity alive despite all the stresses, challenges and problems we might be dealing with. How do you keep your creativity alive?
Becoming a full time artist was never something I thought would be possible in my life. But now that it has become an expectation, burnout can most certainly play a factor. I’ve learned to keep myself inspired by art forms and styles I have never tried. Trying and learning new things has really helped keep me fresh and excited to be creative.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m Blonde Vanity AKA Ben Lewis, I am a full time event producer and drag artist. I got into drag in college, doing it just for fun. I was so inspired by the community I found myself in. I really wanted to grow as an artist so I began to learn more about costume creations and adding comedy into my routines. Once I had established I started to step into event production, hosting many shows a week. Now I use my platform to spread LGBTQIA+ visibility. I love getting to meet new people and entertain. But more importantly my work within the community to help educate individuals about our rights. Organizing city council speakers and talking to local news stations about potentially harmful legislations. We have made great strides this year protecting our rights but the battle is far from over.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back on my journey my tenacity and determination to learn new skills/grow has been my largest asset. The best advice I can give any new artists is to always challenge yourself. Make sure that the only person you are competing with is yourself yesterday. Also dont hesitate to ask your peers for help.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
The most important people to my success have been my family. By this i mean both my birth family and my chosen family. It really does take a village. Having people you know have your back and are willing to help you is such a asset and I try to never take it for granted.
Contact Info:
- Website: theblondevanity.com
- Instagram: theblondevanity
- Facebook: theblondevanity1
Image Credits
MX, Photography Amomda Photography
