Meet Pauline Hacopian

Today we’d like to introduce you to Pauline Hacopian.

Hi Pauline, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I am born and raised in Los Angeles, California, I have been trained in fine arts but I’m mostly a self-taught artist. I am a licensed hair and makeup artist for a little over ten years now. After a long hiatus of not creating art, I decided to start painting again for fun. It wasn’t until I saw a mural contest on Instagram through Burbank Armenian Association where I decided to create a design concept for the contest. I painted my first mural in 2021 for that same organization. It was at that moment where I wanted to create more art throughout the city for the public to see and make a career out of it. Shortly after I painted a utility box for the city of Burbank, sponsored by Warner Brothers. I have had my artwork at a few pop-up and art shows. I just hope to share more of my art with the community and hopefully inspire others to share their creativity with the world as well.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
Running any business always has its challenges, especially if you are building a business from scratch. For the most part, it has been a smooth road because I have always been creative and interested in art. So instead of working on my clients, the canvas just changes from their hair or face to an actual canvas or a wall. The only constant struggle (I don’t even want to call it a struggle because it’s part of the job) is, to constantly be creative and build a portfolio to show your work to potential clients, and just balancing the two careers.

What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for? What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I am a visual artist and muralist. I have been painting and creating art since I was little. What started out as just a hobby, has now turned into a passion of mine. I met an organization in 2021, and painted my first mural and have been known for that mural. The theme of the mural was about my cultural roots, so I incorporated my culture and where I was born, Los Angeles, using symbols that represent both the city I’m from and my culture. It’s something that I’m really proud of! What sets me apart from others is that I wholeheartedly believe that everything is connected. I like to incorporate sacred geometry, spiritual designs, and bold colors to pay respect to our connection with nature and to serve as a reminder to reconnect with nature and protect it.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up I have always been an introvert. Mostly I kept to myself, got in my own zone and just did things that made me happy, which included drawing for long hours. I also love spending time with my family and friends. I was always interested in art and beauty, but I also love motorcycles and things girls aren’t really interested in. I have always been very observant, determined and organized. Organizing is like therapy for me. I used to organize my friend’s closets whenever I would go over to their home. I’m a summer baby, so I always loved spending time in the sun. I still have the same interests!

Contact Info:

• Website: www.pbehindtheart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pbehindtheart
• Other: https://www.instagram.com/paulinehacopian