We had the good fortune of connecting with Pasha Lebedinsky and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Pasha, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
Many years ago, before the internet was ubiquitous, I was instructing therapeutic painting classes for elderly residents at a managed care facility. A granddaughter of one resident watched my interaction and asked if I could paint live at her upcoming wedding. Of course, I was horrified at the idea, but my reticence was short-lived after I heard her offer.
Prior to this, I had never heard of what is now called “live event painting”. Word spread organically, and within a few years, several more people also asked me to paint their weddings. Eleven years ago, I quit my safe corporate job and began my career as a full time live painter.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My first live paintings were on cheap notepaper sized canvas. The work was embarrassing. The invention of large cell phones has allowed live artists to take fantastic quality photos to use as on-site references. Prior to that, I made quick charcoal “studies” and painting in much looser, impressionist style. Using my cell-phone, I have been able to increase canvas size and level of detail. I am known for high detailed, realistic portraits and exaggerated color spectrum.
Something that sets me well apart from other live painters is my interactivity–I insist on guest participation, and every event involves at least some measure of “art class”.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First on our visitor itinerary would be Henk’s European Deli & Black Forest Bakery. My go-to cake is their incredible Chocolate Amaretto! I would grab a German Burger and some salty black licorice to go. Surely, something would be worthy of a trip to the Dallas Museum of Art, which would likely coincide with something else worthy at the Klyde Warren Park just across the street–or, at minimum, a nice lunch from one of the many food truck vendors…
Most certainly on the itinerary would be a deep stroll through Deep Ellum where our sweet tooth could be sated by fresh beignets at Le Bon Temps Beignets and Coffee…
Lastly, since any friend of mine appreciates antiques and art, we will make an obligatory visit to Bishop Arts District. Because I will be torn between Lockhart Smokehouse BBQ and Eno’s Pizza Tavern for eats, my guest will have to cast their vote…
If my friend is coming during Yule season, we are definitely going to see the 12 Days of Christmas at the Arboretum.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
In 2014 I proposed to my wife, Anna. Soon after, she suggested I make the frightening dive into full-time artist. In December 2014, I tendered my resignation with a company I loved, and I have had her counsel, critique, and support in the decade since.

Website: https://www.pashaeventpainter.com

Instagram: Pasha Event Painter

Linkedin: Pasha Lebedinsky

Youtube: Pasha Event Painter

Other: Tik Tok: Pasha Event Painter

Image Credits
All photos taken by Pasha

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