Queen Victoria once said: “Beware of artists, they mix with all classes of society and are therefore most dangerous.” She believed that artists are here to disrupt the peace. But what is the danger in art? Perhaps what she meant is that self-expression challenges the status quo and creates havoc?
In a time where the reboot of the feminist movement is at an all-time high (and the demand for diversity is rampant), artists must demand to be heard and seen…especially if they are wearing pink!
For this issue of The Social Networth (an empowering movement starring content creators using their visibility for causes), we honor all arts and all artists. Our feature is called #Weareallart and we are benefiting the incredible charity The Art of Elysium. Since 1997 The Art of Elysium has been pairing volunteer artists with communities in Los Angeles to support individuals in the midst of difficult emotional life challenges like illness, hospitalization, displacement, confinement, and/or crisis. They serve medically fragile children, teens, adults, seniors, those dealing with social, emotional and mental health issues, and the homeless.
These featured 10 content creators are artists in their own right. Some of them are singers, actors, writers, podcasters, comedians, and storytellers. They keep putting themselves out there on their social platforms to express themselves. They all come from different backgrounds and social status. Their goal is to create, inspire and use their social media visibility for a cause bigger then they are. We honor The Art of Elysium for the work that they do. Everyone deserves to be heard and seen because we are all art.
To find out more about The Art of Elysium please go to: www.theartofelysium.organd get involved by either donating or becoming part of the incredible work that they do.
Name- Lilia Buckingham
Instagram Handle- @Lilia
Age- 16
Social Media Following- 1.6 Million
Birthplace- Los Angeles, CA
Passions- Writing, Acting, Producing, Creating in general.
With just 16 years on the planet, Lilia Buckingham is already achieving things that most people would dream to do over a lifetime. Not only is she cementing her path as an actress, author, dancer and social media influencer, but she also has a huge humanitarian calling. Lilia enjoys writing and plans to release a book on June 30th 2020 with Random House Publishing. She is co-writing “Influence” with Sara Shepard, the author of the popular ”Pretty Little Liars” books. She believes that her platform needs to serve a bigger cause in humanity. Lilia does a lot of community work at the LGBT community center. She also has her own anti-bullying organization called “Positively Social.” Lilia says, “Kids listen to kids. If you have a platform, why not use it to speak about things that can help other people?”
How do you personally love to give back?
I volunteer at the LGBT Youth Center and I love getting to work and connecting with kids who are just like me in some ways.
What’s art for you?
Art is a way of expressing yourself in a creative and productive outlet. It is something that can heal your soul and help others.
How do you see art healing people when they are suffering?
It lets people express their emotions in a healthy way. A lot of the time it creates something beautiful that you didn’t even know was possible.
What do you think of the work that The Art of Elysium does?
It is so important to bring art to people in pain. People need to be inspired and see the beauty in life. Seeing beauty is especially needed when we are going through a hard time. Art opens us up to see the beauty in everything.
Life Goals
I would love to act in something that I wrote and produced. I would also love to keep giving back to the causes that I am passionate about.
Brands that you love and want to work with?
I love Urban Outfitters—especially their home décor. I also love candles from Bath and Body Works—they are amazing! I would love to work with them.
What is the legacy you want to leave behind in this world?
I want people to remember me as someone who went out of their way to help other people. I want people to be healed by the art that I created.
Name- Elli Moore
Instagram Handle- @ellimoore
Age- 23
Social Media Following: 96k
Birthplace- Charleston, SC
Passions-
Making music, entertaining, making people laugh, bringing people together.
Elli Moore is the Lady Gaga of our digital age. She has been producing and writing music for digital stars that are now becoming mainstream (such as Gabbie Hanna) and guiding social media stars like Kenzie Ziegler and others. Her music has had over 100 million downstreams and she is now venturing into her own solo career as a singer. At the tender age of 23 Elli takes very seriously fostering young girls into becoming powerful artists. We are honored to have her be part of our feature. This is exactly what The Social Networth stands for.
How do you personally love to give back?
There are a lot of organizations close to my heart, but in my day to day, being present and supportive of those around me is something I try and do every day. I’m my happiest when I see others succeed no matter how big or small their successes are.
What’s art for you?
To me, art is connection and art is an expression, it’s passion and it’s love. You can see when an artist is truly connected with their work, it’s a part of their body, soul, and mind. I feel like that’s why as artists, we are typically afraid to put our work out there because in a way we are putting a piece of ourselves out in the world for criticism. But when we finally take that leap, the reward is so beautiful.
How do you see art healing people when they are suffering?
Art forms a togetherness, it brings people closer and it has a way of reminding us how small the world really is. We all feel the same from time to time and art reminds us of that. We are part of a big world but a small circle—we can all use a song or a picture that silently says, I hear you, I see you and you are not alone.
What do you think of the work that The Art of Elysium does?
I think their work is incredible and is helping so many people. Being someone that loves to create art I know the power and stability that it brings me. I think people who are going through illnesses and a rough time can incredibly benefit from being around artists who want to help.
Life Goals
I really want to make my mark on the music scene. I love bright, fun pop and I want to remind people to not take themselves too seriously.
Brands that you love and want to work with?
I love Nars the makeup brand. I love “Dolls Kill,” they have been so kind to me, and “Missguided Milk Makeup.”
What is the legacy you want to leave behind in this world?
A smile can change someone’s day.
Name- Chris Lamm
Instagram Handle- @christopher_lamm
Age- 26
Social Media Following- 61.9k
Birthplace- Schweinfurt, Germany
Passions- Activism, Cooking, Hiking, Nature
Model/actor Chris Lamm is passionate about making a difference in this world. He is a huge advocate for social causes like human trafficking and sexual abuse. He is working on an autobiographical script that will highlight very vivid, painful events in his life that he is turning into art. He believes that some of the best art comes from some of the darkest places. His goal is to inspire people who have gone through very painful experiences to speak up and be heard. He believes that telling one’s personal story is always very vulnerable, but when your intention is to heal others, it’s a rollercoaster worth taking.
How do you personally love to give back?
I work and have worked with non-profits involving human trafficking and sexual abuse.
What’s art for you?
Anything that helps you express and work through an emotion or a past event in your life. It’s anything that nurtures your soul and inspires you.
How do you see art healing people when they are suffering?
Other people’s stories of overcoming heartache have the power to heal people’s lives. When someone is vulnerable and courageous they prove that the mountain they have been assigned to, is nothing, compared to the strength they have to climb it.
What do you think of the work that The Art of Elysium does?
It’s so powerful for the community. Artists hold the key to inspiration and healing. I am very happy to become involved with them.
Life Goals
I want to constantly heal from my past and help others on their path. My art is acting, writing and directing. I also want to start a non-profit some day that helps people to cope and heal.
Brands that you love and want to work with?
Chanel, Dior, Kenzo, and YSL
What is the legacy you want to leave behind in this world?
I want to make movies, stories, and non-profits behind that inspire and encourage healing.
Name- Roberto Portales
Instagram Handle- @rjportales
Age- 30
Social Media Following- 578k
Birthplace- Tampa, FL
Passions- Fitness, Business, Football, Personal Finance, Adventure, and Teaching others.
Roberto Portales has served in the armed forces. In a lot of ways, his past experiences in the Army have colored his mission to help veterans transition into civilian life. “In the Army, you literally have to put the safety of others before yours—this breaks any kind of egocentric pattern that you may have,” says Roberto. With a passion for fitness, travel, and business, Roberto wishes to focus his laser-sharp discipline to make his dreams come true. Having had the kind of “team-building” training that he had, not only makes him very focused, but it also makes him a selfless person who is out to make a difference.
How do you personally love to give back?
I work with veteran’s organizations and with veterans personally to help them transition to civilian life, and I help wounded warriors (both physically and emotionally).
What’s art for you?
For me, art is any expression of human creativity that stops me in my tracks and gets me to reflect.
How do you see art healing people when they are suffering?
Being creative and expressing yourself helps you to embark in self-discovery and distracts you from suffering—that can be very therapeutic.
What do you think of the work that The Art of Elysium does?
I think it’s extremely needed in our society. When I have worked with veterans I noticed that they have so much pain and no outlet for release. Art is release.
Life Goals
On top of my list: to make a positive difference with as many veterans as I come across. I would love to develop my brand into a multi-million dollar company. I also would love to act in a feature film and television series.
Brands that you love and want to work with?
Nike, Genesis, American Airlines, Hilton, Rolex, Cartier, Verizon, USAA, Xbox
What is the legacy you want to leave behind in this world?
I want to die knowing that I helped my fellow brothers and sisters with open arms as much as I could.
Name- Matthew Santoro
Instagram Handle- @matthewsantoro
Age- 34
Social Media Following- 6.4 Million
Birthplace- OT, Canada
Passions- Spirituality, Mindfulness, Reading, Creating, Meditating.
Matthew Santoro gave himself a year to fully focus on building his YouTube empire… and he succeeded. With over 6.4 million subscribers his message has hit a powerful chord with the mainstream. Matthew incorporates his philosophical sensibility into his content and creates compelling videos with fascinating trivia. His topics are not only educational but extremely entertaining and always leaving us wanting more. We are very proud to have Matthew in our feature. He understands the power of giving back and evolving consciousness.
How do you personally love to give back?
I love to give at all times and try to relieve the suffering of others.
What’s art for you?
Creation.
How do you see art healing people when they are suffering?
Art is interpreted by people in a way that is meaningful to them. It helps them to understand and have perspective in what they are going through.
What do you think of the work that The Art of Elysium does?
I think that the most powerful thing you can do with art is to give it away. The fact that they have artists that volunteer to help people, is one of the most impactful things anyone can do in this world.
Life Goals-
Figure out what is next for me : ).
Brands that you love and want to work with?
Nike, Off White, Apple, Bape
What is the legacy you want to leave behind in this world?
I want to leave behind the message of kindness and generosity.
Name- Toddy Smith
Instagram Handle- @todderic_
Age- 28
Social Media Following- 4.4 Million
Birthplace- Huntington Beach, CA
Passions- Writing, Storytelling, Playing the Piano, Performing and Making Films with friends.
Todd Smith is all about self-expression. Whether challenging the “conventional” with his hilarious videos or having a full set of painted nails…he is not scared to show who he is. At the same time, Todd is a big believer in the arts and its incredible power to heal people. And then, of course, there is that magic around him. He inspires us to be who we want to be. We are very proud to have Todd be part of our feature and we can’t wait to see what fun adventures he gets into next!
How do you personally love to give back?
I like to tell stories that inspire others and hopefully help them pursue their dreams.
What’s art for you?
Art for me is something created by an individual or individuals. It should make you feel something and inspire you to create something of your own and inspire others to create as well.
How do you see art healing people when they are suffering?
Art has the ability to take someone away from what they are currently feeling—as well as distract them and hopefully bring them some type of joy.
What do you think of the work that The Art of Elysium does?
I think The Art of Elysium is imperative in our culture. We are seeing so many more cases of homelessness, and those people need art to heal themselves. Everyone also needs art to get perspective and move forward.
Life Goals
To find my future wife, stay alive, give back and inspire others.
Brands that you love and want to work with?
I want to work with brands that allow me to have my creative freedom.
What is the legacy you want to leave behind in this world?
I want to attempt to leave this world a slightly better place than when I found it. I would love to help the world through my art of storytelling and music playing.
Name- Shira Lazar
Instagram Handle- @shiralazar
Age- 36
Social Media Following- 1 Million +
Birthplace- Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Passions- Meditations, Reading, Good Meals and Conversations with friends. I also love writing poetry and journaling.
Shira Lazar is a true renaissance woman. She’s a poet, radio host, motivational speaker and visionary. She inspires her fans through her storytelling and encourages everyone to be curious. Examining the polarities of life is one of her biggest pleasures. “Finding out what makes people tick and having empathy for them is what empowers me,” she tells us. Shira is not conforming to any label and commits herself to keep us guessing what’s next for her.
How do you personally love to give back?
In any way that I can, in person or through my platforms and via storytelling.
What’s art for you?
Art to me is self-expression. I love the polarity and reflection of what we can and can’t see in life. Art connects and heals.
How do you see art healing people when they are suffering?
A lot of us can’t explain how we feel or comprehend the trauma that we have been through. Art can act as a therapy to let go and heal. Art has no boundaries or judgments. Through the act of art and creativity, we can gain our self worth, confidence and rediscover who we are. The act of playing also heals the soul.
What do you think of the work that The Art of Elysium does?
The Art of Elysium does some of the most important work in the world to heal people. They inspire people in need through art. People need to play in whatever way they can and have a different perspective of their situations.
Life Goals
To always be present in gratitude and self-love. Share my joy with others so we can play together and enjoy how incredible we all are.
Brands that you love and want to work with?
I want to work with brands that are connected to social impact and sustainability.
What is the legacy that you want to leave behind in this world?
Love and laughter. I want to inspire the world to stay curious.
Name- Bri Hall
Instagram Handle- @brihallofficial
Age- 25
Social Media Following-1 Million
Birthplace- New York, NY
Passions- Drawing, Animation, Music-Making, and Humanitarian Work.
Bri Hall is a beauty inside and out. Her charismatic and authentic YouTube videos have cemented her in the digital world. Bri truly puts her money where her mouth is. She has gone to Ethiopia to work with women on trafficking and children’s recovery initiatives. She is a firm believer that the power of art saves lives. With so many different passions when it comes to her self-expression, we can’t wait for this powerhouse to continue to inspire us and blow us away.
How do you personally love to give back?
I have dedicated my life to humanitarian and social justice endeavors. In February, I went to Ethiopia to work with women for trafficking/children recovery. I have a soft spot for wanting to reduce human suffering.
What’s art for you?
Art saved my life. It is an emotional outlet and it can be whatever you want it to be.
How do you see art healing people when they are suffering?
Art has healed me in times of suffering. I love it when I give someone a portrait or something that I created and it changes their mood.
What do you think of the work that The Art of Elysium does?
The Art of Elysium is truly transforming the lives of people who really need it. Art makes you feel alive and it also inspires you to live. I am sure when those artists go to the hospital, those patients feel so much better about their lives and have better access to healing. I look forward to finding out more about the incredible work that they do.
Life Goals
-To do a music album and have it go gold.
-I would love to start an NGO. I would love to animate my own cartoon.
-To create an incredible amount of wealth and give it away to people who I love and to charity.
Brands that you love and want to work with?
Google, Apple, Puma, Target
What is the legacy you want to leave behind in this world?
To make an impact with kindness and creativity.
Name- BC Serna
Instagram Handle- @bc_serna
Age- 31
Social Media Following-100K
Birthplace- Denver, CO
Passions- Filmmaking, Traveling, Dancing.
BC Serna is curious about the world… the outer and inner world. With over 10 years of traveling to incredible places and documenting it, he takes us for a ride every time we hear his podcast. His Venice vibe is contagious and when you talk to him you feel like you have known him your whole life. BC also has a passion for personal development and figuring out what makes everyone tick. His thirst and curiosity for life will always keep him compelling and we are thrilled that he is part of The Social Networth.
How do you personally love to give back?
Mentoring youth and working with the homeless in Venice.
What’s art for you?
Creative storytelling.
How do you see art healing people when they are suffering?
It connects our stories to struggle and purpose.
What do you think of the work that The Art of Elysium does?
They help people realize that no matter what cards you are dealt with in life, it is your job to accept them and make the most of them. Life is beautiful if you just accept it and allow it to be.
Life Goals
Having a TV show highlighting what is good in the world. I want to create a program that helps others become mentors.
Brands that you love and want to work with?
Sony Cameras, Tesla
What is the legacy you want to leave behind in this world?
A legacy of love and to inspire others to become mentors.
Name- Jorge Perez
Instagram Handle- @jorgeperezjr
Age- 42
Social Media Following-63k
Birthplace- Caracas, Venezuela
Passions- Personal Development, Giving Back, Comedy, Connecting, Making a Difference.
How do you personally love to give back?
I am a board member of the Hollywood Food Coalition, which is an amazing organization that feeds the homeless. I love showing up there once a week to volunteer and serve people food. When someone in need looks at you in the eye and says, “Thank you,” it’s the most beautiful feeling in the world.
What’s art for you?
It’s something that inspires me to be better and makes me think about life in a different way. I love the perspective that art can give you and the ideas that it can ignite. I recently went to a Madonna concert, called “Madame X,” and it blew me away. The idea for this feature of The Social Networth was born from that concert. It was all about art.
How do you see art healing people when they are suffering?
I once had my heart severely broken and I used that pain to direct the most beautiful video about my best friend’s mom passing away from cancer. I was able to transport that pain from my heart and take it through a creative process that filled me with compassion and empathy.
What do you think of the work that The Art of Elysium does?
The Art of Elysium is so needed in our society. People that are sick need art for perspective, entertainment and peace. I am constantly blown away by the work that they do. They are personally responsible for bringing love, inspiration and peace to the world.
Life Goals
I want to continue to grow The Social Networth and have it transform the conversation of service globally. My goal is for The Social Networth to become a multi-media company with a studio, advertising agency and award show. I want to honor the best of the best when it comes to content creators giving back. I want to continue to connect content creators with charities and watch how this partnership turns us into a powerful community. As this machine of The Social Networth keeps unraveling, Generation Z will become more involved in giving back (service) and we are going to have a massive surge of help in this world.
Brands that you love and want to work with?
Netflix, Apple TV +, Facebook Watch, Instagram, YouTube, HBO Max, Disney + and Amazon.
What is the legacy you want to leave behind in this world?
I want to transform the conversation of service in the world. I want people to start giving back since they are young kids…little by little. As doing “service” becomes “cool” we are going to be able to solve massive issues like climate change and homelessness. Truly, the sky will be the limit with this movement.
By: Jorge Perez
Edited by: Derek Warburton
Photography: Rowan Daly
Styling by: Max & Fred
Set Design by: Federico Laboureau
Catering: Home Restaurant and The Guest House
Location: Wilhardt & Naud – Monica Macdonald
Hair: Ashley Wahler
Hair Assistant: Sasha Betts
Hair: Madison Clifford
Make up: Nazzi Husaini
Video: Matt Barker
Video Editing: Brenna Nouray
- THE SOCIAL NETWORTH PRESENTS ADOPT THE ARTS with JANE LYNCH - March 1, 2020
- THE SOCIAL NETWORTH PRESENTS #WEAREALLART – THE ART OF ELYSIUM - December 16, 2019
- THE SOCIAL NETWORTH #GIVEBACK - July 2, 2019