Your Life is a Work of Art
July 20, 2010
“Your life is a work of art: your experiences, your accomplishments, your memories and…your hair!” This is the philosophy of Patti Spring and why the slogan, “Life as an Art Form” symbolizes her work at Live Art Studio.
Established in 1986 at 4207 Dumaine St. in Mid-City, Live Art Studio is a showcase for state of the art hair cutting and coloring techniques for women, men, and children. Patti is also a nationally licensed Massage Therapist and certified Reiki Master, offering full body aromatherapy massage that includes warm stone therapy in each session. Eco-friendly bath, body, and hair care are available in the retail area. Environmentally-aware practices are very important to the avid recycler, as she utilizes energy efficient Hero Program lighting and cooling systems. Since 2008, Patti has collaborated with Matter Of Trust by donating hair cuttings to create mats and booms that are currently helping to clean and protect our wetlands. The studio is also a showing space for some of the finest artists and jewelers in the area. In this interview Patti talks about the origins of Live Art Studio and it’s role in the culture and community of New Orleans.
How did Live Art Studio begin?
Live Art Studio began with a personal desire to realize more of my potential as an individual in the industry. After working happily for years with another salon, I decided to take the plunge and open my own place. Twenty-four years later I am still growing and going strong so I believe I made the correct move. To any who have a desire for more in life, all I can say is “Follow your dreams. Stay focused and work hard. Keep an open mind and heart. If you believe you can succeed, you will!”
Who are your clients?
My clients are the most wonderful folks on the planet! They make coming to work every day a total pleasure. Like New Orleans itself, they are the quintessential manifestation of beauty in diversity. From 3 years old to 91 years young, student to professional, artist, musician, and all things in between, they are an eclectic mix from all walks of life. I believe our common bond is the awareness that life IS an art form and that is how we attempt to live it.
What else does Live Art Studio do?
Live Art studio is a meeting place for some of the most fascinating people. It is an outlet for the support of all manner of artists in all types of mediums. My walls are constantly changing art exhibits and I love it! Our art parties are always fun and well supported. The formula for our success? Great artists and their work, people who appreciate great artists and their work, lots of delicious wines, and live music to accompany the event. Shaken and stirred, it’s a delightful mix. In fact, you can catch a glimpse of our last party in April on YouTube complete with music by Some Like It Hot Brass Band. If you’d like to be invited to the next one, shoot me your email to www.liveartstudio.com.
When you opened the studio did you envision all the multiple uses?
Initially all I knew was that I wanted to offer the finest in hair services and products in a relaxing and inspired environment and since many of my friends were artists it only made sense to decorate my walls with their work. Then, of course, we had to have a party. This is New Orleans, after all. I can honestly say that Live Art Studio has been responsible for the happiness of many people, myself included. As time went on my interest in the healing arts became more prominent and I followed my heart. I studied aromatherapy and then created Live Art Aromasols. Shortly after I met and became certified by my Reiki Master, Genevieve Carter. Then came a year at Blue Cliff School Of Massage with licensure in that field. I suppose you could say that as I grow, so does my studio. I am always learning and searching to be more. I believe that is how we stay young – keep on learning new things. Even though I cannot stop wars or oil spills, I can make the world a nicer place, one happy, satisfied client at a time. My goal is a smile on my client’s face and I am so grateful for their continued trust and support and the opportunity to do that.
Where did your slogan “Life As An Art Form” come from and what does is the importance of this concept in the community?
My original business card had my signature across it with the words “Experience Live Art with Your Next Hair Cut” printed below it. The client is Live Art and every time they walk thru my door the importance of that slogan comes to bear. Here begins the artistic collaboration between my client and myself. We do a 5-10 minute consultation each time we visit because that chat in the mirror may result in a fresh new idea, and then the art ensues. My people know that they will get 100%of my efforts to my art form to help them achieve their goals. I have a responsibility to the client in the chair or on the massage table that I do not take lightly. Actually I am humbled by the trust. To quote one of my favorite poet philosophers, Kahlil Gibran “Work is Love made manifest.”
