LuLu lum
Lulu’s Art reflects her
reputation for being anything but ordinary.
One step into LuLu Lum’s home, and you know. This woman likes coloring outside the lines.
“I do consider myself a colorist,” says the striking 73-year-old, fluffing her signature red mane.
And color is the prevalent theme of both this fashionista’s wardrobe and the art that lines her turquoise, lime, and lavender walls. Mannequin Art to be specific. A genre that’s rebranded her life and transformed her multi-floored home into LuLu's Mannequin Lounge.
But let’s back up a bit… Because Lulu’s flair for adventure and creativity didn’t begin with mannequin art. Her one-of-a-kind nature was likely destined from the start, being born a leap-year baby (Feb. 29), and raised in the shadow of Disneyland’s castle (Anaheim, CA).
This eldest of three sisters adopted bright purple and pink as “me” colors early on (“They just make me happy”), and her independent streak took full flight with college graduation.
After earning a Child Development degree, Lulu put any thoughts of teaching on pause for two greater passions — freedom and skiing. She spent several years in Utah & Colorado, supplementing her time on the slopes as a cocktail waitress (“loved it”). Then, after an oceanside stay in Santa Cruz, CA, spent a year in South Africa.
“I was very adventurous,” she says. “After always being a good little girl, doing what everyone said I should do, I decided to let go and do whatever I wanted to do.”
Eventually, life circled back to California, where LuLu taught kindergarten and worked part-time as a restaurant matre’d for 25 years in San Francisco and the East Bay.
”It was the perfect combination,” she recalls fondly. “I loved teaching kindergarten — those non-judgmental 5-year-olds brought out the kid in me! But I also loved hosting (still do), and my ‘adult time.’ I’d go from chasing kids on the playground to getting dressed up and learning about fine wine.”
Global adventures have been LuLu’s lifelong pleasure as well, including treks to Thailand, Egypt, Morocco, Spain, Sicily, Italy, Germany, Peru — and the game changer, moving to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
“I moved here in 2019, just five days after retiring, and I never want to leave,” LuLu says. ”I didn’t envision living an artist’s life. I mean, I was a kindergarten teacher! But, after years of admiring (and buying) others’ work, the urge to create struck.”
Why mannequin art? “I’ve always loved mannequins,” she explains. “They’re my alter ego. Then, about three years ago, I decorated one with discarded jewelry — and aha. It sparked the creative joy I’d been searching for all my life! I knew I had to keep going.”
Which she has. Glu gun in hand, spray paint and accessories at the ready, LuLu precisely places baubles, bangles, and beads; feathers, clothing, shells, and stones—whatever’s necessary—to manifest her gender-blurred, often sensual, bodies of art.
“Head” sculptures recently expanded her standard repertoire of torsos, tables, chests, and breasts, with no creative end in sight.
“I’m always whirling with new ideas,” the artist says. “Mostly, I create my mannequins for the joy they bring me. But it’s exciting when one resonates with someone else.”
You can see this avant-garde artist’s
growing portfolio at LuLu's Mannequin Lounge .
And reach out to contact her at Lulusmannequinlounge@gmail.com
and on Facebook and Instagram.
Lulu’s Insights at 73
What are you most grateful for?
Moving to San Miguel’s vortex of magical, creative energy. It’s been life-affirming! I love creating and sharing my art, and I’m grateful every day to be here living my best life!
What is your greatest joy?
Creating my art and waking each morning in my colorful, art-filled home with 2 lovable cats (Porsche and Precious) and my dog Gemma by my side! It’s also really fulfilling to do volunteer work that provides educational scholarships for Mexican children and young women.
What is your greatest current challenge?
Staying positive about my art, despite criticism from those who don’t “get” it.
What’s your greatest motivator?
Seeing other forms of art sparks my imagination to create and explore more.
What’s the top meaningful more you still want to explore?
At the moment, it’s going to France, where I’ve never been. But I’m changing that next year! I’ll visit Paris and the Bourgogne and Champagne wine regions to taste the world’s best wine, including my favorite bubbles, Vive Clicquot. I can’t wait!
Within the wrinkles of time, what helps you stay strong & confident rather than feeling lost, invisible or “over the hill”?
So many things… My wonderful women friends. Wearing fun new clothes and accessories. Throwing parties. Caring for my animals. Volunteering. And supporting other artists.
What is your “edge” — your superpower, that’s evolved with age?
Confidence. I’ve always had a zest for life, but at this age, I care a whole lot less what people think. I feel fearless!
What's your greatest SURPRISE (so far) about becoming an “older” woman?
All the wonderful surprises that just come with life itself. I never envisioned living in Mexico or becoming an artist, and now I am doing both & loving it!
Name a 50+ woman, real or fictional – or share a quote – that inspires you. And why?
The simple phrase, LIFE IS SHORT, has been my mantra since moving to San Miguel. I say it as a daily reminder to make every moment matter, enjoy every day to its fullest, and spread joy & laughter wherever I can.
What’s your No. 1 suggestion for women in their third chapter?
Live life! Don’t hold back. Do whatever you can to be happy.