Ep.90 | Chris LaPorte - From Theme Parks to ArtPrize Glory

In this episode Chris LaPorte, the Grand Rapids-based artist who won the second ArtPrize competition and currently teaches at Aquinas College, shares the personal and creative journey that led him from one year of being an engineering student to award-winning artist—and yes, there’s an '80s cover band involved.

Chris opens up about his decision to leave engineering school to attend art school, mostly to follow his creative passion. (Partly to join an '80s cover band.) He reflects on his early work drawing caricatures in theme parks, the years of dedication behind his large-scale pencil drawings, and the emotional power of art in times of grief.

Chris also talks about how loss has shaped his work, and how art can be a powerful form of therapy—a way to process pain and find connection.

Topics Covered:

• Dropping out of engineering school for art (and music)

• Early days drawing caricatures at theme parks

• The creation and impact of his ArtPrize-winning piece

• Teaching art and staying creatively motivated

• Coping with loss and using art as a therapeutic outlet

Chris brings humor, vulnerability, and insight to this episode—a must-listen for anyone who creates, teaches, or turns to art for healing.

Connect with Chris LaPorte:

www.chrislaporte.com

@chris.laporte.art on Instagram 

See his art:

Chris's newest piece is up at Silva, in Grand Rapids, MI. His ArtPrize winning piece is on display at the Aquinas College Library.

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