Creators within Us

Place to promote and celebrate black and brown people success!

[welcomerandumbness]

Morning, this is Khalid Silvers, a talented photograper. His work has been quite inspiring and beautiful. Here's more about him and what he does.

I'm a filmmaker/photographer. I've always had an out there imagination, I was the kid in the back of the class drawing pictures and day dreaming. Creativity runs in my family. My grandma is an amazing painter. My mom does crafts like jewelry, necklaces wrists bands etc.and my sister is a writer. So i guess I have a predisposition towards creating. Some of my biggest artistic influences are american, chinese, korean films and aso japanese anime.

1. What got you into photography and film making?

When I was little I used movies as a form of escapism from daily life. I remember watching fight club in high school and having it be one of the most impactful movies on me artistically. It was one of the first movies that really shaped my view of what film making as a medium is really capable of in terms of changing people's perspectives. The ability for a film to impart philosophical teachings to people or get them to feel an intense roller coaster of emotions made me fall in love with the craft. During that time I did a lot of skateboarding and I would film and edit all my friends skating. Ended up getting really good at developing an eye for cinematography. So when I was bored i would go home and make mini short films that i would act in. I just loved crafting worlds and story lines that could induce some sort of feeling in other people when they watched it. A few years later I started taking it more serious and structuring a business around it.

2. How do you pull through a long day of work?

I just keep the end creative goal in mind and that usually helps me get through a hard day.

3. What would you call the way you work with models?

I'm pretty chill when it comes to working with models. I explain my creative concepts and the direction i'm going for.

Majority of the time I'm super collaborative and don't mind taking on new ideas or letting the model change things but sometimes there will be specific things I need to stay the same and I'm always clear about that with the model.

4. How do you go about making models feel comfortable?

There's nothing I do specifically, I guess it depends on the model and their demeanor. Every situation is different. I just always approach in an open way while explaining my creative vision and things work out.

5. Is there any part of this industry that you don't exactly enjoy?

I don't really enjoy networking when it comes to the photography community, I don't mind it as much in the filmmaking community but I've seen so much unnecessary drama in the photog community it just seems safer to stay away. I've been invited multiple times to meetups or galleries and I've just never been interested. I've always liked to do my own thing with my friends, just me and them creating stuff.

6. What type of photographers do you feel models should look out for?

Photographers to look out for would be pushy ones. If a photographer is pushing you to do something you're not comfortable with then I wouldn't work with them. Or ones with huge egos.

7. Was there a time you felt uncomfortable with what a model wanted you to do, or anyone in particular?

The only uncomfortable moments I've had has been dealing with models being condescending or attempting to treat me like I don't know what i'm doing. It's a pet peeve. If I detect any issues I normally just confront it and if it continues I won't work with them again.

8. How do you go about making the model experience more comfortable while with you?

Communication is key! Before even meeting up with the model I go over the concept and what I want to do so they have the idea before even meeting. Once I meet up with them I go over it again in detail and see if their comfortable with everything. I let em know to tell me if there's something their not comfortable doing.

Thank you so much for taking time out to read today. Make sure you follow amd check out more of his work here:

Instagram: @blue_nimbus

[welcomerandumbness]

Morning everyone, today's interview is with Priscilla Bampoh. A talented artist that has an amazing way of making art. Please take the time out to read and enjoy more about her and her work.

I was always considered a talented artist from a young age, so much so that classmates constantly got me to make drawings and small comics for them. There were times when designing comics of my own, based on video game or movie characters that I wished I kept, just to have a laugh. At that point I was sure that I could make art as a career, taking part in art clubs, small exhibitions and taking on digital art at 2009.

Eventually I carried on drawing as a hobby; I loved it that much and I’ve already made a social media presence thanks to my work. After losing my job I’ve actually been considering a career change right now, hoping to become a professional illustrator in years’ time.

Making art has always been a way to connecting with other people. I find it quite difficult to socialise with others; joining the online art community has been a great way to share my art as well as build friendships with a number of people from mutual views and interests such as video gaming or animation. 

1. What is your ideal medium to draw or paint with?

I like to use Paintool Sai and Procreate. Sometimes I would use Photoshop for final edits.

2. What are some things you enjoy doing when art becomes overwhelming for you?

If I’m too tired to do art I’m often playing video games or relaxing and scrolling around social media. Nowadays I’ve been into cooking meals from scratch; it feels really nice to try out hobbies that don’t involve looking at a screen for hours!

3. Any artists out there you'd like to work with in the future?

A lot! @bogboogie (Twitter) in particular is a close friend of mine and a talented writer. I worked on a collab project with them, about to do another piece this year and I just love to keep on working with them on future projects

4. What part of your art process do you enjoy?

The very beginning of the art process. My favourite is sketching, but I’ve really been loving the lineart procress since it’s improved over the years.

5. What are your plans for this year?

My main goal is to get into art professionally, so I’m aiming to join more projects, developing my portfolio and working on visual developmento and character design. If I’m lucky I might try and get into an art course.

6. How do you explain your art style?

My art is considered unique, stylistic and warm (in terms of colouring)

7. How long has it taken for you to perfect your style in the way you can share and enjoy with others?

Its taken a while since the 9 years I’ve been sharing my work, since then I’ve been fumbling with it for time. Earlier years my art was heavily influenced by anime and as it’s developed from 2012 onwards I’ve has been influenced by various artists and constantly experimenting. It wasn’t until 2015 that I finally felt that my art was my own.

8. Have any of your friends saved your past work? How would you feel if they did?

I’m not sure if they did save my old art? Even if they did I’d probably feel awkward and I’m happy with them saving or sharing my latest work.

9. What are the kind of people you enjoy working with to get your art out there?

I love working with people creating zines/fanbook projects, they don’t have to be huge well-known artists, just really lovely like-minded people who want to take part in collab work.

You can find and follow her here:

https://instagram.com/bampshi?utm_source=ig_profile_share&igshid=lfu58sxfz0dp

[welcomerandumbness]

Say hey to Dolly Vicious! They are a super gorgeous model that has sparked my interest. Here's more about them and their art.

I got started back in 2007. I was the only weird black goth in my community and wanted to disprove the idea that goth can only be white. I set a goal for myself. I wanted to become the first black goth on the cover of gothic beauty, and I made it happen. Before that I’d been featured in a few publications and on the cover of a local news paper. However right now my education has set a new precedent in my goals, so modeling has slowed way down. I’m about to receive my bachelors in sociology and plan to return for my masters.

1. What part of modeling did you enjoy in the past?

Getting to dress up was always my favourite part of modeling! Meeting talented people is also a huge part of it that I loved!

2. How would you explain your art style?

My art style is chameleon-esque. I love just about anything, but lately I’m really into more artistic/fine art style photography. Mainly those who shoot on film.

3. Anyone in particular in the modeling industry that you look up to and admire?

@Sadistitt

4. What are some helpful advice for young women today pursuing modeling as a job?

Just have fun. Don’t compete with anyone, make friends, and only do what you feel comfortable with doing.

5. What are some characteristics you believe some should have to make it work for them?

A thick skin and lots of drive. It’s hard to stay motivated but as long as you have the drive you can do it!

6. What plans do you have for the future of your modeling career, if you decied to go back to it after graduation?

I still plan on modeling. I’ve had a few photographers reach out to me recently, so I don’t think I could stop if I wanted! Lol

7. Do you have any ideas of what you might do next?

I have no idea! I guess we will all have to wait and see 🖤

Thank you so much for reading and stopping by. You can follow Dolly here:

Instagram: https://instagram.com/sicksadweird?utm_source=ig_profile_share&igshid=1dez304zgr1co

[welcomerandumbness]

Good morning and today's interview is with Jasemine. The photographer with an amazing personality and experience.

I’ma try this again, now that I’m on a keyboard I can word it more dilligently. 

I’m Jasemine, going be hers/she. I’m 27, from Chicago and traveling a little of everywhere. I started photography to connect with other people, instead of just myself. The dream was not become a photographer, but to become the photographer. The one you want to book for everything.

1. What was the motivation to your photography business?

I was motivated to start my business after I became old enough to understand the passing of my father. It was kinda devastating to me because I didn’t have enough pictures of him, us, etc. As I got older, I decided I didn’t want anyone to feel that way. The decision to start putting modeling as an agency into play was determination to really showcase the alternative community. I felt like it wasn’t enough to say “Oh man, there are not enough people getting recognition.” The purpose of me branching out and shooting models was to point it out and say “Here these talented beautiful human beings are. Recognize them!"

2. What plans do you have laid out for this year?

I have a lot of projects mapped out for 2019. Some of them involve me in front of the camera, some behind. Most of them takes the artistic talents of my team and combines them with the beautiful imagination of my clients and others who are interested in working with me. One of the biggest ones, one I’m not nervous to share is my visual project paying tribute to Mac Miller. That was a major loss to me and I want to illustrate to people that he was so much more than what he’s notoriously known for. It’s gonna be a project for sure. 

3. As a model how would you explain your art style? 

As a model, this was an accident in my eyes. I feel like I was just doing my thing, and someone said “Hey, I dig this.” Then someone else was like “I dig this too.” And now I’ve got moments where people I’ve always thought were incredibly talented (People like Roxy who you interviewed) give me like these nods, and I feel like holy crap. They see my heart, my soul, my voice.. Because that’s all my style is. Me standing in an empty room, singing into it, hoping that one person may walk past and go, “Damn I feel that.” I just want to evoke feeling. 

4. What are some ways you feel a model should look for in a photographer? 

Safety. Safety and attention to your vision. As a photographer, I can confirm that a lot of these people are in it thinking it’s a “Oh I just wanna get paid fast.” Type of thing. You don’t need that. You need a photographer who sees your vision, who wants to help you toward your goal, who may charge you but is with you every step of the process. Look for quality too. I’m saddened by the amount of younger models who paying for six edits and coming back dissatisfied. I promise you, there’s a photographer out there who is gonna feel what you’re doing and they’re gonna put what they do, in all of its glory in too. 

5. What type of advice do you want to share when it comes to modeling in  general? 

Be yourself. I tell my models that all the time. You’re gonna come in, and you’re gonna be nervous. That’s normal. It’s not like you come into a photoshoot and any photographer demands you be Naomi Campbell or Adonis Bosso. This is your mental vision coming into fruition so don’t be afraid to take your time and give it thought. 

6. How do you see your career this year?

This year is hopefully the year we get the feet stomping and the hands clapping as Steven Adler would say. For years I shied away from the concept of success and attention because I was just afraid of all the What Ifs. I’m not afraid anymore. 

7. Who are some models you'll like to collaborate with? 

Wow, I can’t even fathom it. There are so many tremendously talented and beautiful alternative models out there. I wanna collaborate with them all! 

You can find and follow her here:

Instagram: jaseminedenise

Photographer Instagram: https://instagram.com/jaseminedenisephotography?utm_source=ig_profile_share&igshid=1vbrd4ahktfcg

Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jaseminedenise

Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/JasemineDenise

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/JasemineDenise/

[welcomerandumbness]

Good morning loves this is Trinity!! Her art style is so mesmerizing and I'm honestly pretty honored she talked with me. Here's a bit more about her and her amazing work! I’ve made art since I was a kid and this is just me getting back into it after having stopped for a few years, hoping to make a career out of what I love. 1. Have you explored other avenues of art techniques? I have a explored many avenues and techniques with my art. Sculpture, sewing, drawing, collages, painting... I am currently working on digital artwork. 2. Where do you see your progress in the next year or two? I hope to see my progress in a year with me moving beyond commission work and being able to sell prints of my own art. Doing art shows on a regular basis is a goal I want to see within the year and in a couple of years I hope I have expanded my art business into the realm of fashion. 3. Your sketches are beautiful, was there anything that was difficult for you to put together? I don’t really find difficulty in putting things together, I have created art for a long time, it’s something that is natural to me and therapeutic. If I’m creating something and it isn’t turning out the way I want I’ll probably just start over or see what I can turn it into. It’s the journey of the process that I enjoy the most. 4. What plans do you have lined up for this year? I plan to take a break from school this year to really focus on my art career. I want to start engaging in some art shows and expand my art sales through prints and other forms of mass distribution. 5. What collaborations do you have ready for the year, if you can share? I don’t have any collaborations set up for this year as of right now. 6. Are there any other artist out there you look up to dead or alive? I look up to Basquiat for sure as a creative thinker. His writings, philosophy and artwork inspire me to create things that engage the mind. Living artist that I look up to is distortedd, she creates trippy artwork that sometimes explores mental health. Thank you so much for taking the time out to read an enjoy her work. You can follow her here: Instagram: @trini.artspace @trini.bini

[welcomerandumbness]

Good morning, today's interview is with the colorful model Lorna! So much pink and fluff and cuteness I love it all!! A modeling icon I can get behind honestly ❤❤ Here's a bit more about her and her experience. 1. What motivated you to get into modeling? As an artist, makeup and fashion is just another way for me to express myself. I wouldn't say I had a motivation to start modeling, more like just fell into it naturally. 2. What is the most enjoyable part of modeling to you? Most enjoyable part is getting to play dress up 😂 just being able to create and be creative. 3. Are there any models or photographers you'd like to work with sometime in the future? Models I'd like to work with would probably be @_sungypsy_ and @roxyvail - I love them both as dear friends and can't wait to collaborate someday. 4. How do you explain your art style? My art style is heavily influenced by things I just like. Sifi, like aliens and robots and pink, fluffy things and positivity. I didn't use to be so colorful, I suffer from depression, so did my father and before my father passed away he told me maybe I would be happier if I wore brighter colors and surround myself with positive and pretty things. We both spent time in therapy and medication but he thought it would help me in other ways, that's kinda when my pink obsession started and it's not a cure but it helps me a lot for comfort. 5. What plans do you have lined up for this year, if you'd like to share? This year I have a couple shoots lined up, you'll just have to wait and see! 6. Any advice for young women wanting to pursue the lifestyle? My only advice would be to JUST GO FOR IT! Stop worrying about what people think, how you're going to make other people feel about your lifestyle because you're living your life for you! Especially poc's because I see so many poc's that are discouraged thinking that something isnt "for" them. Be who you want, and don't let anyone tell you who that's gonna be. 7. Anything about modeling you find unpleasent at times? Only unpleasant thing to me would be unprofessional people who aren't taking the craft seriously, or inappropriately. Her photos are phenomenal, so much wprk and love seeps right through each of them. Hope you all loved this just as much as I did talking with her. Make sure you checkout her Instagram too! Instagram @ilylorna Facebook : Lorna zan

[welcomerandumbness]

This is Rod E. Soulocc and his art style is amazing and awesome to admire. Here's more about him how he got started.

For starters I go by the name Rod E. Soulo, but you can call me Rod. I'm 24 yrs old and I don't know where it came from but I've been drawing since I was a kid. I picked up tips and skills here and there but I'm pretty much self taught. I've always had little art kits or the how to draw books from the scholastic book fair. Back in kindergarten I started off trying to draw things such as vampires, cars, and Pokemon. If we ever had to sketch anything for a school assignment, it was never too difficult. As I got older my interests started turning more towards anime such as Dragon ball Z until I got into the graffiti world and now I pretty much mix everything I learned into one style. It was always a hobby but more of an escape. Life hits us all unexpectedly and I turned away from my art for a while but I never did quit permanently. I lost focus and passion, then a lot of time passed and I realized I wasn't creating anymore. You know the saying "If you don't use it, you'll loss it"? I'm a strong believer in thinking that the gifts we are born with are there for a reason but to make a long story short, I promised to myself to never go that long without creating something ever again. Here I am, I started to take my art more seriously a few months ago and now I'm going to see where it takes me. I feel like I made the right decision.

1. How do you explain your art style?

Vibrant, urban, and sick. I merge what I learned from drawing graffiti and merged it into people, places, or things. Art imitates life and I try to recreate what I lived, what I feel, or just what I see from my perspective. I really don't have a box to put it in. Sometimes I just go with the flow until I see the outcome ya know? Express yourself until you impress yourself..

2. What part of the art process do you enjoy the most?

I enjoy getting the outlines and the details right the most. Also chilling the color in. Sketching it out is important but the full ins and the detailing is where all the fun is at. The parts where you can bring your art to life, give it color, make it pop off of the page, and feel the vibrations as if it has its own energy and is staring back at you..

3. Are there other artists out there you would want to collaborate with in the future?

The only artist that I can think of that I would actually want to collaborate? Besides a few local artists, it would be Marc Ecko. Graffiti artist turned clothing designer. I was always impressed by graffiti but Marc Ecko is who really made me want to get hands on with it. Just being inspired from the clothes he left his mark on me. Besides, I too want to design my own clothing line in the near future so. I'm already cooking up ideas.

4. Is there any other art mediums you'd like to try out some day?

Yes, I would like to start using more canvases soon. Go bigger. I thought about taking random wood furniture and tricking it out, giving it a new look. I would like to try digital art as far as graphics and logos go but other than that, I'm good with pencils, pens, and markers.

5. What motivated you to pursue more within your art?

Having a "natural born talent" as they would say. My granny tells me I have a calling on my life. I feel like I have a gift from God or some other type of assistance and I didn't want to lose it. I almost forgot how passionate i was towards my art until I did some soul searching. You can become a product of your environment and not realize it by slipping further and further away from your calling. I got disconnected for a bit, but by the grace I made myself a promise to never go that long without creating again. I just hope I stay focused and find my direction.

6. Do you have any tips for others wanting to do more with their art?

I'm not as far in my journey as I would want to be, but if my words mean anything I would just say "Do you, if you feel it in your heart do it. Everyone won't have the same eyes or passion that you will have towards your art. Many won't get it, but it's not for them, it's for you. Don't get discouraged.

7. What emotions do you feel and express within your art?

I don't want to make anyone get down and depressed, but I had a lifetime full of pain to make a long story short. Through my art I express my pain, my drive, my soft side, my love, my loneliness, my emptiness, my love for the female anatomy, the pieces of me that I can't seem to puzzle together. My dark side, my good side, the good, bad, and the ugly. So many emotions bottled up in one human canvas I probably don't even express them all. As long as I can bleed on the paper, I will..

You can follow and buy from here at these links:

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/el_soulo_loco/

https://www.instagram.com/designdbysoulo

[welcomerandumbness]

Say good morning to Darius Dawson, am enthusiast whom I've learned to really get to know through his art. I must say, he really enjoys what he does. Here's a bit more about this gentleman.

I have been painting since I was very young, because my mom was an artist. I began taking weekly art lessons up until high school. I got back into painting a couple of years ago during grad school as a source of stress relief.

1. What encouraged you to take up art?

My mom encouraged me to take art. We had some of her art work in our house growing up and she would sit with us and help us do some art. In 4th grade, I won an art competition so that inspired me to do more.

2. What part of the art process do you find difficult?

Sometimes creating what you see in your head can be difficult. It might be something that you haven’t done before, so having the patience to create it can be difficult.

3. Anything you'd like to share as advice to those wanting to start?

I believe that everyone is an artist. You just have to find what you do best with. If you have the patience, you can create something great. Perfection is not art.

4. Who do you look up to in the art community?

I look up to my mom. I also look up to some of the greats like Piet Mondrian, Hans Hoffman, and Sydney Pollack.

5. Anything you painted that had a deeper meaning?

Yes, not all of my painting do, but some of them have a deeper meaning. One of my favorite paintings I created while being really bored and frustrated. So, I just started putting paint on the canvas and smearing it.

6. What advice could you give to those looking to get into the art community?

Just start creating and practicing what you like to do. Then, use social media or the internet.

7. What part of the art process do you find enjoyable?

I like the planning process when I’m preparing what I’m going to paint. Whether it’s choosing the colors or the size of the canvas, it can be really exciting.

8. Messages for artists not getting the results they want for their art?

Once again, you have to be patient. You have to create art for yourself, not for other people. If you’re doing what you love, eventually it will be respected by others.

Thank you so much for reading, and check out Darius work here:

Instagram: @dariusblakedawson

Facebook: darius.b.dawson

[welcomerandumbness]

Good morning folks, this is Charisse ShaVon!! I enjoy her art and admire her work for such a long time. I'm so glad to finally interview her on here. Take the time to get to know her like I do.

I've always been a creative type who liked to dabble in different things: sewing, drawing, jewelry-making. I found my love of painting in high school when I had a really good art teacher who made painting fun and interesting. Thus far I just do acrylic painting, but I want to get into water color also. I also want to become a better acrylic painter, and step out of my comfort zone more. I mostly make abstract pieces. It's the most carefree. But I want to explore realism more too.

1. What is your ideal medium to draw or paint?

Hmmm, that's a tough question. They both have their appeal. I do think I prefer painting more because of the way you can mix colors and create whatever color you want.

2. Any artists you've meet in the past that you look up to or want to collaborate with?

There's no one in particular that I've met thus far that I've wanted to collaborate with. But I do want to collaborate with other artists. I think it would be really cool. It'd be nice to work with someone with a similar style or someone totally different. I'm definitely open.

3. How do you describe you style?

My style is mostly abstract. It's also very vibrant. I'm all about color therapy. Creating and viewing vibrant art gives me a good feeling.

4. What got you into wanting to do art?

I don't even remember a time where I wasn't being creative. Art has always been a part of me. Now I'm at a point where I want to do it more seriously.

5. What plans do you have for the future of your work?

In the future I want to improve my artwork. I want to learn new techniques. I have SO much to learn. I just want to grow and expand. I want to try watercolor, and not just acrylics. I want to fall back in love with chalk and oil pastels.

6. Any ideas on trying out vendor spots near you?

In my city we have an "Art Walk" once a month. You can set up a table and sell for free. I've set up a couple times. I've sold hair bows and jewelry. I've yet to sell paintings at this type of event, but I want to keep trying.

7. What kind of advice would you have for those wanting to start in this industry?

My advice would be to start from whatever point you're at. Just start now, even if you're limited in resources. Take pride in yourself no matter what skill level you're at. This might also be advice to myself lol.

8. How do you explain to someone new in how to pursue their dream professionally?

Honestly, I'm still quite a beginner. I sell on sites like eBay and Etsy. Surprisingly, I've had more success via eBay. You could start there. And if there's places where you can locally sell your art as a vendor, definitely give that a try. Promote yourself on social media. Having more than one social media is good, to reach more people. The more content you put out, the better (again, advice for myself as well).

9. Do you recommend breaks and down time for your work? How so?

Absolutely. Breaks are so important. We don't always have the inspiration to create. Trying to force it can make us fall out of love with what we do. Take a break, experience life, and inspiration will come.

10. Is there a favorite part of your work you enjoy?

My favorite part..hmm. I think it's looking at a finished piece and feeling totally satisfied with what I've done. I also like when I'm creating something and I'm really in the groove of things with my headphones on, listening to music.

Ah, this is super great. I'm so glad yyou took the time out to talk with me.

You can follow Charisse buy her work here:

Instagram: charisseshavon.paintings

Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/PeaceLoveDragonflies

[welcomerandumbness]

Hey!! Welcome back folks. This is Khalid Sabree, he is a enthusiastic painter and with such amazing work. I know ya’ll will enjoy looking at it as I have. Here’s a bit more about him as an artists. Well, I’m a neo-pop expressionist painter, which means i express my art based on unpopular and popular culture. I mostly use acrylic paint and various other materials to put on my canvas to display different messages. I was born a black Muslim in Harlem to parents who converted to Islam in the 1960’s. I grew up being different from most of the kids in the projects of Harlem based on my faith and my beliefs, no pork, no alcohol, no smoking, etc, etc and I think this made me not afraid to be different in my art. I went to Art and design HS and also studied fine arts at NYU. I’ve been married for 21 years and have 3 children. This is just a few snippets of my life. My 3 favorite artist are Basquiat, Bearden, Haring and Jacob Lawrence. 1. How did you come about your art style? Since I was in High School of Art and Design, I always admired abstract paintings, so the minute I got a chance to promote my style it would be some sort of abstraction in my paintings.

2. Any artists out there that you’ve looked up to in the past, or even now? I love Basquiat for his abstraction, I like Keith Haring for his use of commercialism in his art. I also love Kadir Nelson for his illustrations.

3. What got you into the art industry? I needed to start my own business that would be about something I loved.

4. Anyone in particular that you wouldn’t mind doing a collaboration with in the future? Yes. Sneaker designer Dianne Holloway, lukas Sabaat, Pharell Williams and a famous architect. 5. What are your favorite art tools you use often or want to try out some day? I love using acrylics because it dries fast and also love oil sticks for its texture. I want to create my own vinyl toys in the future.

6. Any art museums you’d like to see you work in? Yes. The Louvre in Dubai The Guggenheim And the Whitney.

7. How do culture expression fuel your way of making art? My African American culture is so vast that I have so much to pick from.

8. Have your children expressed interest in making art themselves? Yes my kids like being creative. I have an 18 year old at FIT, and a 15 year old in a Culinary high school. My 10 year old is being home schooled and wants to go into engineering. 9. What advise would you give someone that are looking to take their art to the next level? Be patient and believe in G-d, because your gonna need it as you grow in your career.

You can contact, buy art, and follow Khalid here: Instagram: kha_tees Facebook: kha-tees Tumblr: kha-tees

[welcomerandumbness]

Say hello to one of my favorite kind of people in the modeling industry!! Ya’ll enjoy their amazing work and just, relish in the sheer beauty they bring out in these photos!!

1. What got you into the modeling industry?

What initially got me into anything remotely, modeling related, was my twin, Twiggy and I were like 14 and would just get dressed up and find props to take pictures with, for our MySpace, VampireFreaks or Piczo pages, then a few years later, I got into site modeling and that got me the following that I needed to pursue professional modeling a few years ago.

2. How do you describe you style?

I’d describe it as, if the town tramp and the grim reaper got into a fist fight in the 90s and she chokes him out with her flannel shirt until they both black out and wake up in 2019

3. Anyone you’ve looked up to in the past that got you to follow your dream?

I looked up to so many people that I still look up to. Some people, turned out to be not so great but most of the people that I looked up to, back then, I still do. For example, people like the women in 90’s Riot Grrrl bands. Their style and attitude in their music is what drew me in to work on my own empowerment and then there are people online who also inspire me like, Hot Cocoa, Cola Nash, Ashli, Razor Candi, Malice McMunn, and Jasemine Denise, just to name a few long-term icons of mine.

4. What are you planning for the new year?

My second hook suspension is a big deal to me. I’m going to be shooting a LOT more and getting into brand modeling, which is new for me. I definitely will be in more publications and websites this year. I’m trying to be all in your spooky spaces.

5. How long does a shot last for you in a day?

Some shoots are short and I’m done in an hour or two and some shoots are all day long and by the end, I’m dizzy, sore, hungry, but happy.

6. Any thing to look out for in getting the right photographer?

When I first started, I just wanted photographers who had decent pictures, and seemed cool, but that wasn’t a good method, because, yes I’ve worked with good people, but I had to compromise and water down my brand a lot, because there was so much that photographers weren’t willing to shoot. I started with fetish modeling, but even with that, they took nice photos, but they were very toned down and easier to digest because they wanted to appeal to the masses, which is not a bad thing, but that wasn’t what I necessarily wanted for MY image. I wanted to go harder with more grit in my images. I did a lot of alternative/goth modeling and I got to dress as myself, to an extent, a highly polished version of myself, because I could look “ goth” but not TOO much. Conceptual shoots were out of the question, because photographers don’t want to risk looking weird, because they have a clientele to appeal to, which I understand and respect. Also there have been very unprofessional and terrifying encounters with some photographers, so now as I’ve been modeling for a few years, I look first for model references and check if they’re blacklisted, if they have good conduct, I check to see how open minded they are and how they handle not being in full control of everything, because I’m definitely done letting other people have more control over my image, than I do. I want to be my real self and if you’re not willing to accept that, I don’t want to work with you. Obviously, if I want to work with someone specifically, I have no problem with doing what they need me to do and dressing how they envision it, but I’m not compromising with someone who reaches out to me anymore. I feel like if you came to me first, you should like me for me.

7. What’s your number one rule in meeting new people for the first time?

Aside from the obvious “ bring a friend for safety” rule, when I meet someone, I sometimes get so nervous, that I get really quiet and seem so serious, and anyone who knows me, knows that I can’t go 10 minutes without cracking a joke and I try now, to stop fearing embarrassment and learn to embrace it and to be my regular dorky self.

8. Any advice for the younger generation looking to become a professional in this industry?

Advice for the youths? Please do not try TOO hard to be taken seriously as a mature model to the point where you don’t feel comfortable or comfortable with saying no. A lot of younger models get manipulated into doing nudity, when they aren’t ready or get manipulated into having their photos sold behind their backs if they do feel comfortable with nudity.

9. What do you look for in a makeup artist? Personally I do my own makeup or my best friend,Dwella does it because people act like working on dark skin is as hard as quantum physics.

10. Any other models you looking to colab with this year?

Yes. I want to collaborate with Izzy Vile, Coral Johnson, and Cola Nash, Shelly D’ Inferno

You can follow Roxy here: Instagram: @itsroxyvail Facebook: Roxy Vail

[welcomerandumbness]

Morning and come by and read, Sorrybot is their Insta name! Her art is beautiful and it has the making of some one that will grow each time she makes a painting.

I’ve been drawing g since I was in 3rd grade! Recently, I’ve been in animation school, so posting my art online seemed like a good idea.

1. What part of the art process you don’t enjoy as much?

This is odd, but sketching has been hard for me lately. If the sketch doesnt come out right I’ll scrap it.

2. How do you describe your art style?

My style is in between heavily cartoonish but still anatomically correct? It’s hard to explain

3. Was there something in particular that got you into the art community?

I’ve been drawing for years! So adding my art online and meeting new artists was a no brainer.

4. Are there any artist you’ve looked up to growing up?

Arthur De Pin, Chris Sander, Alex Ahad

5. What got you into the art community?

Seeing so many cool artists posting art!

6. Any advice for those younger than you wanting to get into making art a career?

Its so super hard at first, my advice is to post daily and make friends!

7. Any artists put their that you look to collaborate with?

I have a friend I would love to collab with, they’re blackloryy on Twitter! I’ll ask them about it later!

8. Any plans you have in mind for your art for the future?

Work on personal project.

Thank ya’ll so much for reading. I enjoyed talking with her and I’m super excited about what’s to come soon!!

You can follow, buy art, and watch on Twitch here:

Instagram: @sorrybot Twitch: www.twitch.tv/simmulation2

Twitter: twitter.com/ajoiyab Reddit: www.reddit.com/user/simmulatio… Patreon: www.patreon.com/ajoiyab Portfolio: t.co/bmnNVd2ydn

[welcomerandumbness]

This is Cedric and his art is really cool to behold. He was a delight, and overall likable person to talk with. The interview was smooth and fun. Hope ya'll enjoy!!

Impressionism is the style that I’m most drawn to. I’m working to get my Bachelors degree and have been an artist since very young. I live in southern Cali, moved here from the east coast and doing what I can to become a professional oil painter. Mostly haven’t much involvement in art society but was able to work on a public mural for the Washington, D.C. government art division called “Toy Theater”.

1. Have you explored other avenues of art techniques?

Yes, but I don’t know of much else than the traditional genres/ eras of art.

2. Where do you see your progress in the next year or two?

I see myself more involved in the public art scenes, and taking on more projects and clients.

3. How do you explain your art style?

My art style is traditional that emphasizes depth, atmospheric perspectives and commonly themed as both looking inward and outward.

4. Anyone in the art industry you looked up to?

Yes, quite fond of Bouguereau, Hale Woodruff, Edgar Degas along with other painters.

5. What got you into art in the beginning, and what kept you going?

Have been into art before I can remember speaking as a toddler, my mother and overall relentless passion for painting keeps me going.

6. Any advice for younger generation of artists looking to make art a career?

Not sure how to start but will say to get collegiate schooling.

7. What are your plans for your art for 2019?

Promote, exhibit at local locations and eligible shows & contests, have more new projects started, enrolled in bachelors or mfa degree program.

Thanks so much for takingtaking the time out to do the interview with me.

Make sure you'll check put more of his work.

Instagram: blendintons

[welcomerandumbness]

Good morning to you all! today we will be enjoying the beautiful work of Melanie aka Kaizeea!! Oh My God, like her work is so beautiful. Everything she makes should be on every wall in my house. It’s so gorgeous!!

Come and read a bit more about her and how she got started.

I am Mélanie AKA Kaizeea, a freelance artist from Mauritius Island.

Embracing myself and my Black Pride, I am specialized in creating Black characters and portraits that promote the Beauty of African Culture and Queens’ Elevation.

My love for Black Culture and Spirituality make that every research that leads to knowledge,.. well, I include it in my creations.

I was doing Art during college years, but I stopped after school. So it was like more for exams and stuffs like that. My interest for Art and creating came back about two and a half years. When I joined an Art platform called Black Artist Connected. I decided to do something very different from what I learned in school. I started practicing Digital Art by watching online tutorial and experiencing.

I loved it more and more and I decided to make it my main Job after a while.

1. Name a few artists you’ve looked up to?

•I am inspired by ‘Art Of Mervin’. His Art style is so realistic and cute.

•Viteloi. Those Illustrations are a level of freedom.

•Justin Richburg. His illustrations most of the time create mass reactions. People are divided by the messages he sent in his Art pieces and I like that. Art making people react, even if lots can be with it. It creates something.

•Nilsbritwum which is also the founder of Creō. This one is one of my favorite favorite Artist. He creates masterpieces of African characters and Illustrations, with wax prints, afro hair, etc with High quality.

2. How do you explain your art style?

My Art style is mostly detailled, realistic.

3. What makes it you and your’s?

Each piece I make I add a piece of my Soul. How I see life. Nature, tribal makeup..etc.

4. Anything in particular that motivates and challenges your work?

Since I start drawing it became my ambition and I always want evolution. Which makes that I don’t stay on what I am doing. I work silently on next step.

5. Is there a celebrity you’ve drew or enjoy drawing?

Celebrity, not really. I like drawing what people consider 'weird’, I call it 'uncommon’. Like Kheris Rogers, Winnie Harlow. People that use their differences to build empires.

6. Any art systems you thought was easier to work with?

Pen and paper for some sketches, and Tablette for Digital Painting.

Folow her on Instagram: @kaizeea_artz

Shop Here: <a href="https://ayokadeco.com/collections/kaizeea?fbclid=IwAR0sk5L2ORAA48guHcMQTBfH9BfNsb7YLpGjqg4Xqo6CfzEW7JbeIuokjGY">https://ayokadeco.com/collections/kaizeea?fbclid=IwAR0sk5L2ORAA48guHcMQTBfH9BfNsb7YLpGjqg4Xqo6CfzEW7JbeIuokjGY

[welcomerandumbness]

It takes a lot for all of us to fail and start over. That's why they say practice makes perfect. The more you continue doing something you love, the better you will become in whatever it is you do.

I for one have been going through a lot last year. But this is one of the many things I enjoy doing. It makes me feel sooo good to help others move up in their craft, no matter what it is.

My dream is to help as many people that I can to get their art work known.

If you're looking to get your art work known, never hesitate to reach out to me.

[welcomerandumbness]

Hey!!! And welcome back to Creators Within Us! Today's interview is with Casia Gee Kuh! ❤❤

Im a Haitian American artist and I’m 22 years old. I got started from going to a paint and sip and instead of actually drinking and following instructions. I just painted whatever I was feeling since I was in a bad space mentally and since then. I’ve done it to go hand in hand with my poetry or gut feelings. I’m definitely interested in making my art a gift. I handmake patches if anything.

Here's a bit more about this lovely young woman as well.

1. Have you explored other avenues of art techniques?

I draw and paint on articles of clothing but I plan on exploring more as I continue.

2. Where do you see your progress in the next year or two?

I see myself selling my art less sporadically. Focusing more on networking and showcasing it.

3. What has been your favorite thing to draw out of all work?

My favorite thing to draw was my chakra paintings, simply because they just came to me. I've never plan out a painting.

4. Any plans going to conventions or vending markets?

Not as of yet but I would absolutely love too.

5. Any other artists out there that you've looked up to?

I love banksy basquiat and two fellow artists @mingonyc and @thebuttuglymartian are pretty inspiring as well.

6. How has your art practice changed over time?

It changed with me gaining more patience. I take my time more with detailing and the vision I try to execute.

7. What is dream project?

A dream project is create my own cartoon to be honest.

8. Name something you love about doing art and why?

Poetry fashion design and I’m working on a podcast for this coming year so that’s exciting.

9. Any advice for someone who wants to pursue art professionally?

Trust in yourself. You’re capable of anything. All the energy put in to the insignificant can be put into manifesting your personal dream!

This was super amazing and I thought starting the new year off with our very first interview was a must. Casia was a thrill to work with and I'm seriously in love with what she do.

Ya'll make sure you like and visit her sites and love by sharing and getting more people out to support.

Follow her here:

Instagram: gvldnaura

You can reach her there for commissions and pricings as well.

Thanks for reading, love y'all so much!!

[welcomerandumbness]

Morning my lovelies!! Today we will look and enjoy the lovely Shay Jones and her beautifully crafted art. I love just about everything she's pretty much made. Like wow!! Here's a bit more on who she is and how she got started. My name is Shay, but my artist name is Daiyanna! I am 25 years old and I have been drawing for as far back as I can remember. I was always the crafty, art kid in school and enjoyed working on art projects.  By middle school, my life for art hadn't diminished and I've kept up with it in high school - where I took extra classes for art. Currently, my love for art developed into a need for a career with it and I now want to work on a large project that is dealing with mental health awareness!! I am very passionate about Mental HEALTH, and I'm very dedicated to creating and completing this project. 1. How do you explain your art style? My art style is a mixture of western cartoons such as Disney and Pixar, but meshed with a bit of anime - because of the details I put into my work. 2. What part of art do you enjoy most of all?  The part of art I enjoy most of all is the sketching! I love sketching so much. The beginning of a drawing as you see it come to life is my favorite part.  3. Any other artists alive or gone that you would like to learn from?  Micheal Angelo and Don Bluth would be some of the main artist I would love to learn from. Micheal Angelo for his detail, figures, and anatomy, and Don Bluth for his facial expressions and animation!! 4. What part of the art process has made art less enjoyable to you in the past? Honestly... either getting the picture aesthetically pleasing or staying true to my style. So I had trouble with trying to incorporate my style with also keeping my work "pretty" in a way.  5. Do you have any plans for you art future? I ABSOLUTELY DO!! I am enrolled in graphic design for 2019 and I am enrolled in an a secret animation program that I will reveal later on if everything goes as planned. 😉 6. What lead you onto this path in the first place? Competing with my cousin lol. We've always held contest with each other and drawing was one of them. When we started drawing... I fell entirely in love with it. So I guess, I have to thank my cousin for being so competitive ahaha! 😂 7. Is there an art style you would like to try your hand at?  Definitely Don Bluth, Pixar, and Disney! More western cartoon type styles.  8. How will your upcoming project help those with mental health?  I am dedicating myself to creating graphic children's books for kids with mental disorders and even some adults with mental disorders, to help them understand what they're going through.  9. What advice do you have for those wanting to profit off of their art? Do. Your. Research. I cannot stress that enough. Don't just quit your job, jump full face in. Do some research, make sure you have your prices down, know what you want to sell, and have everything planned out. Keep a journal of your commissions, keep track everything from supplies to clients. You have to stay on top of everything like it is a REAL job - especially if you want it to be.  10. Any advice for people looking to get into art itself? Just have fun! And practice! I know people get tired of hearing that but practicing will always be what gets you ahead. It'll always be what either makes you or breaks you. Practice what you're bad at, practice what you're good at, just practice everything - but always remember to try to enjoy what you're doing. Make sure you come by her page like and share a lot of her pieces. If you feel inclined buy something from her as well. Take time out to enjoy what she has created. Facebook: Daiyanna Art