Life & Work with Thea Taylor of Mar Vista

Today we’d like to introduce you to Thea Taylor

Hi Thea, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
At the age of sixteen, I found my saving grace of storytelling. Growing up, I was never particularly fond of books or writing, since I always associated it with school. But looking back now, as an adult, it makes perfect sense for the little girl who was always playing pretend to spend the rest of her days weaving stories. I fell first for fiction writing, completing my first manuscript at the age of seventeen. Though I communicated with a few literary agents, ultimately nothing came of it. I continued writing new stories and took to poetry in college.

After navigating some creative blocks in my early twenties, I came back to myself and why writing is so important to me: because it is for me. Because it is me. While a major goal of mine is to write for others and provide a space of escape and perspective, I began writing because I had stories that needed to be told. There is a particular kind of joy that comes from following what sets our soul aflame, even if it makes us feel crazed at times. I think it’s very much like love in that way.

Now writing for nearly nine years, I’ve self-published a book of poetry, The Los Angeles Gardening Guide, as well as a chapbook of essays called Not for Show, published with Bottlecap Press. I recently finished a manuscript exploring the many forms of grief through a late-coming-of-age with hints of magical realism. I’m now shopping for a literary agent and hope to expand my audience and career in writing. In between these big endeavors, I started a Substack called Dirty Laundry where I expand upon personal ideologies and beliefs regarding mental health, sociology, and creativity.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been easy, I’ve faced many internal struggles and moments of imposter syndrome that have hindered my productivity. Over time, I realized in regards to my greatest dreams, I often allow myself to get in my own way. Despite this, when it comes to writing, I always have hope and faith, for it feels like my one true love I can always turn to, especially in times of need. Writing has ultimately saved my life many times. I find when I’m away from it for too long, I struggle in my daily life.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I would say I’m known for being flowery and bittersweet. My writing tends to be drawn out and whimsical, but sometimes in a dark manner. I’m proud of my tone of voice in my writing as well as my ideas; I believe it sets me apart from others because individuality will always be the defining difference between any artist.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love the ability to meet so many people and observe various walks of life so openly. There is overall a feeling of support and care on the west side, especially in regards to the arts. Even in the pockets of tech bros and business execs, creativity still feels cared for.

Ironically, I adore that community is so abundant, and yet, also so sparing. Between AI taking over conversation, little robots driving around on the sidewalks, and people constantly being glued to their phone screens, there can be a jarring disconnect with humanity. A lack of understanding for one another, and even more so, a disregard for common care. Many people have lost the ability to navigate true vulnerability and authenticity, which I believe harms both the recipient and the culprit.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://theaslaundry.substack.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaslaundry/

Image Credits
The headshot was captured by Casey Island.