Pablo Picasso once said, “Everything you can imagine is real.” While the imagination is a powerful—and necessary—tool for artists, today’s guest believes success takes more than simply having a dream; it requires a solid game plan to become a reality.
“The key to manifesting a dream is by daily actions,” says Los Angeles designer Mary Lai, who joins host Scott “Sourdough” Power on today’s podcast episode to discuss her two-decades-long career in the arts. A tireless source of positive energy, Mary creates colorful work—murals, sculptures, digital art, mixed media—that reflects her can-do attitude and sunny disposition.
Prior to working as a fine artist, Mary built a decade-long career in NYC as a fashion accessories designer, even creating an award-winning namesake handbag collection. While the time she spent as a designer offered Mary invaluable insight into commercial art, she feels more at home with her current role in fine art. “I don’t think I would have felt as fulfilled doing handbags as I am now,” she tells Scott. “After all those years and experiences, I’m at a point where I can find that balance [between commercial and conceptual art].”
Mary also shares her experience as an artist-in-residence at the W Hotel in Westwood, LA, where she recently launched Unlock Your Dreams, a characteristically colorful installation that blends inspirational fantasy with elements of playful nostalgia. The installation celebrates the power of inclusivity, optimism, and individuality, encouraging viewers to follow their own path, in their own way. “I wanted the theme to be ‘unlock your dreams,’” says Mary, “because I wanted to [show] that dreams can come true by creating these doors and opportunities for yourself.”
Tune into our conversation with Mary Lai, who sheds light on the importance of community, collaboration, and failing your way to success.