Grace VanderWaal's Artistic Evolution: From Child Prodigy to Multifaceted Performer

Grace VanderWaal, the once-precocious ukulele-wielding talent who captivated audiences on America's Got Talent, has blossomed into a multifaceted artist. Now a 20-year-old singer, songwriter, and actress, VanderWaal is poised to unveil a new album and make her mark in the upcoming Francis Ford Coppola film Megalopolis. In a candid conversation, she reflects on her journey, the evolution of her music, and her passion for exploring the complexities of societal norms and personal growth.

Redefining Her Artistic Identity: Grace VanderWaal's Transformative Journey

Embracing the Artistic Freedom of Megalopolis

Grace VanderWaal's experience on the set of Megalopolis was one of creative collaboration and artistic freedom. She describes the process as "really creative" and "very collaborative," allowing her to make her character, Vesta Sweetwater, truly her own. Despite the initial surreal feeling of being part of such a monumental project, VanderWaal's excitement has only grown as she's seen the final product. She's proud of her contribution and humbled to be a small but integral part of Coppola's cinematic vision.

Discovering the Timeless Genius of Francis Ford Coppola

Although Coppola's iconic work predates VanderWaal's lifetime, she was well-aware of his cinematic legacy. She describes his films as "timeless" and "solidified in cinematic history," recognizing the enduring impact of his work. VanderWaal was drawn to the depth and dimensionality of her character, Vesta, and the way the role explored themes of purity culture and societal expectations – topics that resonate with her own artistic journey.

Balancing Acting and Music: Prioritizing Authenticity

While VanderWaal is open to future acting opportunities, she emphasizes the importance of finding projects that truly inspire her. She acknowledges that "amazing things are rare and require patience," and she's willing to wait for the right roles that align with her artistic vision. Her primary focus, however, remains on her music, where she's determined to reintroduce herself to the world authentically and without compromising her creative integrity.

Bridging the Past and the Present: Evolving Her Musical Identity

VanderWaal's recent singles, "Call it What You Want" and "What's Left of Me," represent a deliberate effort to transition her sound and connect her past work with her current artistic direction. She wanted to lead her audience into her new musical world in a way that felt comfortable and confident, avoiding any sense of "shock value" or being discredited. This intentional approach reflects her desire to maintain a sense of continuity while embracing her evolving artistic identity.

Overcoming the Pressure of Preconceptions

VanderWaal acknowledges that she has felt "boxed in" musically due to her initial success on America's Got Talent, but she attributes this more to her own self-imposed limitations than external pressures. She realized that she had been telling herself that people only liked her for one thing, which led to a sense of creative confinement. However, with time and maturity, VanderWaal has gained a newfound appreciation for her past experiences and is now focused on forging her own path forward.

Navigating the Unique Challenges of the Music Industry

VanderWaal candidly discusses the lack of a clear-cut "game plan" or "formula" in the music industry, which can leave artists feeling lost and uncertain. She emphasizes the importance of finding one's own unique path, as the journey is different for everyone. This realization has been a crucial part of her own artistic development, as she has learned to trust her instincts and create music that resonates with her, rather than trying to conform to external expectations.

Embracing the Complexities of Personal Growth

VanderWaal's upcoming album is a reflection of her current mental and emotional state, which she describes as "heavy" and "kind of dark." She acknowledges that the album may not have a clear resolution, as it captures a "freeze in time" of her personal experiences. This artistic choice is a deliberate attempt to convey the rawness and authenticity of her journey, recognizing that life's challenges don't always have neat, tidy conclusions.

Cultivating Meaningful Connections and Mentorship

Despite her success, VanderWaal reveals that she has not had the benefit of close industry relationships or mentorships. She laughs at the notion of having "famous friends," acknowledging that her focus has been on her own personal and artistic growth. This introspective approach has allowed her to develop a strong sense of self and a clear vision for her creative direction.

Reintroducing Grace VanderWaal: A Multifaceted Artist and Thoughtful Observer

As VanderWaal enters a new chapter of her life and career, she hopes to reintroduce herself to the world as a multifaceted artist who is driven by a passion for quality, thought, and art. She emphasizes her desire to create and produce music that she herself would enjoy listening to, reflecting her commitment to authenticity and artistic integrity. Beyond her musical pursuits, VanderWaal's interests extend to film, television, and the art of home decor – a testament to her diverse creative interests and her ability to find joy in the simple pleasures of life.

Exploring the Complexities of Societal Norms and Personal Growth

At the core of VanderWaal's artistic journey is a deep fascination with the societal structures and patriarchal values that have shaped her experiences. She is passionate about understanding the invisible codes and biases that influence how individuals, especially women, are perceived and judged. This exploration of the complexities of personal growth and societal expectations is a driving force behind her creative expression, as she seeks to shed light on these often-overlooked aspects of the human experience.