Wherefore Art Thou Drag Kween?
Like pink chilled lemonade on a hot day; Art Simone is fabuleux.
A dazzling Drag artist, entertainer, producer, star, gender illusionist, and makeup expert; Art Simone is an extraordinary talent. When we sat at our monthly Ponderings brainstorm and asked who do we want to interview the suggestion of Art Simone resulted in squeals of delight and so much enthusiasm you could bottle it and sell it at Milan Fashion Week.
Her website is a viewing platform of sparkle and there is even merch in the online store. Would you like some success with that Boa baby?
Art’s guest role on the Bachelor filled the hearts of viewers; as she imparted words of wisdom about the strength in owning and embracing the gorgeousness inside and out.
The reigning Drag Performer of the Year is cheeky, fun and we welcome Art Simone to Ponderings!
When did you first try on a pair of heels, and what was that experience like?
I remember strutting in heels from dress-up boxes from a very early age, but the time I remember clearly was when I purchased my first pair of heels from an op shop when I was in high school – I was completely shocked to find a size 13 pair that fit my big old feet and snapped them up right away. I felt fabulous! And would wear them around the house so I could practice in them and enjoy being a lovely leggy lady!
Makeup tip of the year?
Makeup? I’ve never touched the stuff; it’s all-natural!
What are you reading?
Reading has a whole different meaning in the drag world – Reading is fundamental, and I’m reading whoever seems like they can take a good joke!
We loved your fave looks on Twitter– some were very Jane Austen-esque are you a fan of old-world fashion?
My inspirations come from everywhere and anywhere, and we do love to pay tribute to vintage designs and inspirations. Everything old is new again, so we love to take these designs and give them a modern or sometimes futuristic makeover.
Treehouse or cubbyhouse?
Cubbhouse!
Your headdress designs are one of our favourite looks- we adore them, feather or sequin if you had to choose?
Neither! Glitter all the way.
What makes the most fabulous drag queen?
To me, a fabulous Drag artist is someone confident and proud of who they are and what they bring to stage. When you’re feeling the fantasy, the rest of the room does too!
What concerns you about the world?
This list is would be too long – instead, I see myself as a court jester, here to entertain and bring joy to the world so that we can forget about the negatives for a moment.
What do you least like about the Entertainment industry?
Majority of Drag Performers are self-employed artists, so we don’t get annual leave, sick pay or super contributions – But hey, we wouldn’t have it any other way!
What do you love most about the Entertainment industry?
Making people happy 🙂
Is there a Drag Queen Etiquette and what would be the top 3?
I’m going to interpret this as Drag Queen Etiquette for Audience members, fans and Drag Lovers.
-
Don’t Call us by our birth names,
-
Don’t touch us without permission (this includes out wigs, costumes and props)
-
If you’re in the front row, please watch the show and pay attention!
What is something most people would not know about you?
I have a 3rd nipple – surprise! Ain’t that neat?
If you could give your 21-year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?
I’m only 27, so I can’t say my mindset is much different – I’m really proud of the journey I’ve taken and where I am now. Perhaps I’d say – Keep doing what you’re doing; you’re doing great Sweetie!
Favourite thing to do on a Sunday afternoon?
For the last four years, I’ve been performing every Sunday at Piano Bar Geelong – I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Do you have a favourite relaxation destination, or do you prefer adventure and bustle?
I wouldn’t be able to tell you the last time I travelled to relax, that just sounds stressful!
When I need to chill out, I just love being at home – it’s my nest and my happy place to rest, recharge and surrounded by comfort!
Art Simone can be found at a variety of the juiciest places in Australia including;
Mollies Bar and Diner Fitzroy, Melbourne Vic
Cork and Chroma South Melbourne Vic
The 86- Caberet Bar Fitzroy, Melbourne Vic
This year’s Chillout Festival in Daylesford, Vic
Rainbow on the Plains Festival, Hay, NSW
