Today we’d like to introduce you to Jerell Gantt.
Jerell, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I was born in Washington DC and moved to North Carolina at a young age. My mother, an artist, always encouraged the creative spirit in me, My earliest memories are of me drawing before walking. Being interested in all aspects of creativity I found a passion for fashion and majored in it at Savannah College of Art and Design. After pursuing different fields, from designing, creative directing and fashion styling, I went back to my first love of art. Creating not only art but Black art has truly given my life it’s unique God given purpose.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have been plenty of struggles when you’re going for your dreams, especially as an artist. I can remember some teachers trying to persuade me to take a more concrete route to education and profession. Many don’t believe you can make a living as a creative, and to some degree, it may be true. This road is certainly not for the faint of heart. I had to realize that the mix of my artistic vision, as well as networking, researching, and marketing would keep me in demand. Yes, I strive to express myself creatively, but merging your creativity with the demand of the consumer is a major key to success.
Please tell us about your business.
I immortalize all aspects of black culture. Past, present and future. I create works of art that give a voice to my generation and my ancestors. I enjoy using a wide arrangement of mediums, from acrylic paint and crushed glass to wood and rare crystals. I recently started a line of Africa home decor that celebrates my culture, as well as serves a purpose of beauty and function.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I feel that education is a large key to success. Not necessarily formal education. But researching and vastly studying whatever it is you do to become great at it. Mixing your education with an undying passion for your craft will take you far.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/IMITATIONBYJERELL
- Phone: 4049020548
- Email: imitationbyjerell@gmail.com
- Instagram: @imitationbyjerell
Image Credit:
Kennedy
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