Image Credit:
José Landeros, Make-up Artist Yvonne Velasco, Producer Frank Chen
Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Konczal.
Lisa, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
I grew up in North Carolina with a strong sense of curiosity and an inclination toward discovery, out-of-the-ordinary, and being an active and positive contributor on a personal, interpersonal and societal scale.
Being drawn toward other and the ultimate learning that comes from that exposure led me to photograph a Berber guide in the Sahara, to document a unique Carnival celebration in the French Amazon and shoot remnants of nuclear testing for a story that took me to Japan … and then back to San Francisco, where I was living at the time.
Authenticity, connecting with people and living life to the fullest has propelled me to shoot and edit stills and video, to write… and to dance and act. I have been consistently drawn to engage with people in person, and through these mediums, on five continents – wonderful people you would surely – and never – recognize. My creative story and “Small World After All” moments continue to grow from my home base in Hermosa Beach.
We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
I have a personal and professional identity rooted in authenticity, respect and high integrity for both the work I produce and the way I engage with subjects, clients… and strangers. This permeates through the various creative mediums I engage in: as a freelance media producer, writer and fine artist via my company, Vérité Creative, and at times, playing a role in front of the camera, as well.
As an artist, I produce fine art prints that I exhibit and sell, ranging in subject matter from Music to Cuba, to Americana. I also write articles and do design work (featuring my photography), and published a book of my photojournalism called, “Through the Lens of an American Woman Alone in Cuba: The Week Before Obama’s Historic Visit.”
My documentary film background permeates in the creation of media focused on strengthening the human connection, including connecting people to meaningful messages and brands. Through my company, Vérité Creative, I create still and moving images. Mostly, I shoot and edit images and videos that promote other artists and business owners, which has led me to work with many Oscar, Emmy and Grammy award-winning artists and successful entrepreneurs, as well as emerging visionaries. Thus, my photography can be seen on movie posters, businesses’ websites and social media marketing their products or services; on album covers and in articles and books.
I hope when people see my images, they feel intrigued, curious or energized… and maybe smile. Perhaps it moves their mind to question something, be open – to learn. I hope people come away more confident and inspired to manifest their gifts – and to find an increased appreciation of others’ gifts and differences, as well.
I produce impactful art – creating a vision, executing direction, and editing to project completion. And at times, I am in front of a camera to reach a broader audience – or energized by direct interactions with people through a live performance or teaching Salsa or Country dances. Photographs and videos that promote professional and personal growth for businesses, and in individuals and communities. Motivation comes from the commitment to move people’s emotions in a way that empowers them and brings about healthier societies living in the community.
Have things improved for artists? What should cities do to empower artists?
We are fortunate here to have a plethora of artistic gifts and other innovative creations being produced in abundance, and being shared with the world.
There are other cultures, like in France, for example, where I studied, that have a strong respect for artists.. and teachers.. and bread makers… and new parents. So in Europe, there is a lot more funding for documentary filmmakers and artists, for example. When we pay artists and all people in a fair way – when we support others – we all do better.
Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
Some of my work can be seen on my websites, Instagram, and professional Facebook pages. Feel free to take a look at both my fine art prints and book (which are for sale online), as well as my more commercial portfolios of musicians, actors and editorial work.
Through my production company, VéritéCreative, I produce marketing content for businesses. I also work on film, tv. and music productions doing publicity stills and shoot a lot of music photography. I am also available for documenting events and people’s personal photographic needs.
Additionally, I am a performer. I teach and perform Latin (Salsa, Bachata, Merengue) and Country (Line Dances, Two-Step, Barn Dances, Country Swing) dances. I enjoy teaching nationwide at festivals, corporate and private events, for large groups – and I also teach private lessons and host events. As a member of SAG, I have acting and modeling credits and started singing last year. Information on upcoming dance events, my background and portfolios are at www.LisaKonczal.com).
Folks are welcomed to send a friendly email to connect or reach out if you or someone you know is interested in working together in one of the creative mediums above.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.VeriteCreative.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/verite_creative/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VeriteCreative/
- Other: http://www.LisaKonczal.com
Models, Antonia Ohnewitz and Benedict Kuehn
Joel and Drake Konczal, models for Chubbies Shorts
John Mayer
Shannon Henderson, Co-Owner and Jewelry Designer of ThreadandTimber.co
Grammy Award-Winning Ray Parker, Jr. On location shooting the film poster and promotional images for the new documentary feature, “Who You Gonna Call?” by director Fran Strine
Getting in touch: VoyageLA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
