Meet LaDara McKinnon | Abstract Artist & Art Instructor

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

Hi LaDara, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I chose to pursue an artistic career because it allowed me to follow my passion, to combat the stigma associated with artists, and to use my education and experience independently. I have been creative for as long as I can remember. When I started college, I was an accounting major and worked in the fast food industry. My partner discovered a doodle I’d drawn and strongly suggested that I take an art class. I had been resistant to following art as my career because of people’s perception of artists as low income earners.

After further discussion, I decided to enroll in an art class that summer and fell in love with art all over again. I changed my major to Fine Art and obtained an Associate’s degree and then moved on to get my Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art. I worked in several art related positions while studying and studied abroad. My domestic and international experience coupled with my education helped me to see the potential for art as a viable business. I decided to form my own business and the rest is history. I love the career that I chose because I get to use what I’ve learned and share what I love by adding vibrant pops of color through abstract art that enhances people’s lives.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I create timeless and original abstract Fine Art pieces with vibrant pops of color, texture, movement, and mark-making. My process is about embracing the journey, intuition, and the feelings associated with color, instead of focusing entirely on the end result. I help my clients to bring their visions and emotions to life through art. Although it is not always easy to do, I believe that art will always be a part of our lives. I overcome the challenges I face by keeping that in mind. I’ve learned that community is everything and to try new things, but to stay true to my vision and brand. I want the world to know that abstract art can be as powerful as figurative or portrait art in expressing your goals, values, or ideas because there are some things in life that are best expressed through color.

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?
I would definitely take my best friend to Slutty Vegan, the High Museum of Art, and the Village Market ATL, I love to be in spaces where there is great vegan food, plenty of space, and, of course, I would check out the art scene and support as many dope small businesses as possible.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to shoutout my partner Mo, my friend Danielle, & my teacher Alex.

Image Credits
Easterday Creative LaDara McKinnon clients