Color and Beauty for Everyone: Mental Health Among the LGBTQ+ Community with Andrew Velazquez

<p>In this special episode of From Survivor to Thriver, we had the honor of sitting down with Andrew Velazquez to talk about his journey as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and how he uses his experience as someone who has suffered from trauma and thoughts of suicide to help others in a similar position. </p><p>He recently released his book, “Amore es Arte | Arte es Amore. Love is Art | Art is Love” with a goal to be a source of positivity and light to all. </p><p>Andrew Velazquez is a born and bred Angeleno who always knew he was meant for a life in beauty. He is the founder of Love is Art, Art is Love cosmetics and a finalist on American Beauty Star. In a star-studded career, Andrew has worked as a makeup artist with major celebrities, from Lady Gaga to RuPaul to Demi Levato, along with countless others on major film, TV and music video productions. </p><p>Growing up in Boyle Heights on the eastside of Los Angeles, in the closet and raised in a macho environment, he turned to his faith in God and the support of his mother, who encouraged him to attend the Los Angeles Music and Art School. </p><p>After earning his G.E.D., he attended LA Trade Tech at the age of 16 and graduated with a degree in Fashion Merchandising. Shortly thereafter, he attended cosmetology school at West Valley Occupational Center, graduating with honors and receiving his license. </p><p>While rising through the ranks of MAC and Anastasia Beverly Hills, he built a loyal following in film, TV, music and fashion before being selected for American Beauty Star and launching his own cosmetics line.  </p><p>Andrew currently lives with his dogs and husband Johnny Debut in Orlando, Florida.  </p><p>In today’s episode we cover: </p><ul><li>How trauma transformed Andrew </li><li>Taking control of your own power </li><li>The impact of our words</li><li>Choosing positivity and light</li><li>How Andrew grounds himself when he is feeling anxiety</li><li>The healing power of animals</li><li>What’s happening now within the LGBTQ+ community</li><li>The impor