Natalie Portman: Art Is Critical to the Soul

Natalie Portman arrives at LAX to catch a departing flight on Monday (February 7) in Los Angeles.

Earlier in the day, the 29-year-old Black Swan star attended the Academy Awards nominations luncheon at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.

Natalie recently shared that, at one point in her career, she contemplated whether acting was right for her.

“There were moments when I questioned it, when I was thinking, ‘What is the purpose of this in our world? Is it as meaningful as being a doctor, being a teacher, or things that I think of as such noble professions?’ But I think I’ve really reconciled myself with that, and I think art is not only important but critical to the soul of a human and the soul of a community,” she told Backstage.com.

“Not to be self-important about what I do, but I’ve found a lot of meaning in it,” she added.

“There really is something ridiculous about dressing up and pretending to be someone else,” she said. “But I think it’s wonderful to do something in life that’s a little bit silly.”

FYI: Nat is wearing Paige Maternity Westbourne Layne Cargo Jeans