The Look Book

Lisa Jo, Artist

"I like to be classic and elegant. I don't know if these diaper shorts are very elegant, but still."

By Amy Larocca
Published May 21, 2005

(Photo: Jake Chessum)

How would you describe your style?
It’s difficult. I try to keep it a little mix of vintage and new, and high-waisted everything is all I wear. I don’t think I’m too flashy. I like to be classic and elegant. I don’t know if these diaper shorts are very elegant, but still.

What are you doing today?
Apartment hunting. I’m having a wretched time of it. Brooklyn’s a little tough, and brokers definitely take advantage of a young girl trying to live alone. They’re awful.

What’s the worst thing a broker’s done to you?
Point out small details, like electrical outlets and the number of bulbs around the bathroom mirror. Brokers just assume that a girl looking for an apartment by herself is worried about vanity mirrors and where to plug in her hair dryer.

Where do you want to live?
Greenpoint. I’m an artist, so I need studio space. Williamsburg is a little too crowded and loud for me, but I want to be near the L train.

Do you dress a certain way to apartment hunt?
Not really, but I think you should look more serious so people can take you seriously.

Are you fussy about grooming?
I keep it simple. I love L’Occitane products, a little Chanel eyeliner, and that’s it.

What kind of art do you do?
A little bit of everything. Right now I’m making watercolors of really tiny little buffaloes. I do some video work as well. I’m from California, a place called Palos Verdes, which is a small suburb near L.A. I think I miss the West, but not necessarily Los Angeles, which is why my work is leaning toward the Wild West.

Who’s your favorite artist?
Right now, Rodney Graham. I am drawn to artists with a sense of humor. Rodney Graham deals with lapse of time and perspective in a really comical way.

What do you miss most about the West?
Well, I have this weird nostalgia for the Old West. But at this point in my life, what I really miss is Mexican food. No one can make a decent enchilada here.