Artist auctions Betty White lipstick painting to benefit Humane Society of Tampa Bay
Betty White’s Lipstick Art Benefits The Humane Society
Reporting by Jordan Bowen
SARASOTA, Florida. – On what would be Betty White’s 100th birthday, a Sarasota-based artist is auctioning off a portrait of a young white man painted only with lipstick. Alexis Fraser, known as “Lipstick Lex” on social media, said the proceeds from the auction will go to a Betty-endorsed charity: the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
At first glance, Fraser’s art studio looks more like a makeup counter. She says using makeup instead of acrylics, oils or watercolors is how she stands out in a crowded artistic community.
“It’s all about beauty and personal empowerment,” Fraser said of painting with makeup.
Her process begins with a sketch first and then dozens of shades of lipstick to complete it. It took Fraser about a week to complete her latest lipstick masterpiece from a young Betty White.
Alexis ‘Lipstick Lex’ Fraser created a painting of Betty White at auction for the Humane Society of Tampa Bay
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The entertainment legend died last month, just weeks shy of what would have been his 100th birthday.
Fraser’s aunt died the same day.
“It was always in his wishes, as well as Betty’s. Both women, no kids, but really, really put a lot of passion into improving the lives of animals,” Fraser said.
Alexis ‘Lipstick Lex’ Fraser lost her aunt the same day Betty White died
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This is what inspired Fraser to use his talents to advance their causes. She painted the Betty White masterpiece to honor the two women and will use the money she gets at auction to help Bay Area wanderers.
“I have always had animals growing up. I love animals. My husband and I, our dog was our child before we had real children, so we always wanted to bring animals into our home,” said said Fraser.
On Monday, they did just that and adopted two kittens from the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. Fraser hopes her work will inspire more families to do the same.
Alexis ‘Lipstick Lex’ Fraser uses lipstick to create his artwork
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“I really like it when I can say I’ve had an impact with something…so just the personal fulfillment I feel to be able to do something powerful and impactful with my rare and unusual talent is pretty impressive” , said Fraser.
Bidding for the coin starts at $750. The auction started on Monday January 17 and ends on Monday January 24. For more information on how to bid, visit one.bidpal.net/bettywhite/welcome..
So far, the Humane Society of Tampa Bay has raised more than $23,000 from people donating in Betty White’s name.
You can see more of Alexis Fraser’s work on her Instagram account or by visiting her website.