Behind the Brand Part 2: Kat Von D Beauty
Posted on May 24 2017
To learn more about Kat Von D Beauty, we asked some insiders: Tara Buenrostro and Kelseyanna Fitzpatrick, two incredible vegan makeup artists who are a part of Kat Von D's Artistry Collective. They chatted about working with Kat, Farm Sanctuary, and our June/July guest curator Skully Smith.
What inspired you to go vegan?
Kelsey: The day that changed my life forever was at Circle V, a vegan festival in LA, sitting on the ground listening to Gene Bauer (Farm Sanctuary), Kat Von D and Nathan Runkle (Mercy For Animals) speak about veganism. They are such powerful and positive vegan role models. They spoke to what was in my heart and made me feel like I CAN DO THIS, for the animals, the planet, and myself. My favorite quotes that motivate me every day are from Kat "Doing our best is the least we can do" and Mercy For Animals "Do what is right. Not what is easy".
Tara: I can list a million reasons why going vegan is the most beneficial thing you can do for yourself, animals and the planet. In the beginning, making the transition myself was not easy. I was turning a blind-eye to the truths behind animal exploitation as well as consuming animal products. When I first became vegetarian, I made that decision because of my love for animals. I was vegetarian for about 2 years and eventually started feeling guilty about dairy and leather goods. One day I finally took the plunge and gathered the courage to keep my eyes open during Earthlings, a documentary that was rumored to be graphic but would be the necessary truth I needed to convert to veganism. The reality of what animals go through for fashion, entertainment, food and scientific research and how WE, the consumer, take a life that is not ours to take is and was absolutely heartbreaking. My friend, Kat Von D told me one time that, 'Every dollar is a vote' that has stuck with me every time I'm put in a situation that exploits animals. I'm proud to say that those things no longer have my vote, nor hold my interest. It's true that every “dollar” counts, because every dollar not spent on those things saves lives. People always talk about how hard it would be for them to go vegan, and I used to be able to relate to that statement. But if they could open their eyes to the truth, they would see veganism as I do: "Vegan, that sh*t's easy!"
Recommended Documentaries: Earthlings, Forks Over Knives, Cowspiracy
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Tara Buenrostro / Instagram juscallmetara |
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Image / Instagram kelseyannaf |
Kelsey: I love Farm Sanctuary so much, I wish I could be there every week! The animals melt my heart. They are so sweet and the staff is so dedicated to them. We spend time playing but also work hard cleaning their barns, laying new hay, and helping rebuild the sanctuary. I learned about where each animal came from, their personalities, and the horrors of the animal agriculture industry. Although it is heartbreaking, their ability to forgive and love humans gives me the strength to stick up for them! |
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Image / Instagram kelseyannaf |
Kelsey: I wouldn't say I have a particularly balanced life, but, I try to stay focused on what is really important to me, instead of forced obligations. I give myself breaks, and try to make time for a few people I love.
Tara: My husband, my dog, and COFFEE keep my feet on the ground. I am nothing without them! As for my diet, I do not miss dairy or meat at all. To stay balanced when being vegan I recommend stop making excuses and comparisons, truly educate yourself, embrace the changes and stay motivated! |
