Today we’d like to introduce you to VALLEJO LEE.
Hi VALLEJO, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
I believe my ability of creativity came natural. I’ve had it since my youth, as long as I can remember. The more penmanship I gained it became easier for me to express my vision. I was fascinated by WWF/WWE, cartoons, skateboards, graffiti and paint. Once my mom introduced computers to our household, I became more fond of “Microsoft Paint” and digital drawing apps. I then took interest in symbolism, such as brand/personal identities. During my early adolescence years, I became more aware of evolution. Causing me to think more about change and growth over a set period of time. I believe this is what got me into “logos.” My goal was to create a new look for things I liked. In high school I got into expressionism, giving me the freedom to create and see things the way I perceived them to be. I also got more into taking photos for this reason; a different perspective. I felt like I was so misunderstood, I only had time to create who I pursued to be. Years of finding me and understanding who I am is what makes the artist I am today. When nobody understood, I did. So I created a lane…just for me, as a visual artist. I had figured out how to get my thoughts out. And my teachers and peers gravitated towards my creativity faster than I expected. I began to take ownership of what I had become. So, I moved like it. I went to college for about 5 semesters, didn’t work out unfortunately. But once I became I “drop-out” I had realized I was notable for my expressionism. People wanted my input and output. So I helped my closest friends start businesses and then I started mine.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starting and operating a business even as an artist has never been smooth. Not saying that it won’t be…I’m working towards it. Through the many struggles I have overcome, a few that stuck out the most were: – Finding my audience: Anyone can admire what you do/offer, but who supports what you do/offer for the benefit of self-sufficientcy?
– Moving passed “No”: This created the fire under my feet to use my maximum potential verses asking/waiting for approval
– Business and Relations: “Na fam, you can’t get a discount.” Any friend that will sacrifice your livelihood for their own benefit is not your friend.
– Payment to Work Process: Creativity is like cooking. Especially if its from scratch. We can rush this and have hot ingredients or we can give the efforts and make a meal.
– All Money Ain’t Good: I’ve become aware that prioritizing customers is a major essential when it comes to business. Fairness and equality has to come before compensation in order to properly task and effectively communicate with a client.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am a visual artist. I specialize in graphic design and photography; creating logos, flyers, visual representations and apsects for businesses, organizations, and individuals. I am also very savvy with hands-on art as well, such as sculpture, painting and murals. I’ve studied film photography, art history, sculpture, 2D and 3D drawing, and poetry. Back in college, I gained a lot of exposure performing at open mic and poetry slam events. Being recognized for my potency in spiritual, cultural, and artistic content. I also dabbled in fashion for a few years. Getting the experience to model with DCFP Fashion Show and collaborating with a Fashion Week personnel, and even modeling clothing for local brands. I can be a self voucher for a “Jack of All Trades”
I believe I am commonly known for my overall creativity in graphic design. As a native of Little Rock, Arkansas being a resident of San Antonio to Dallas, and now Atlanta, within about a 4-year time-span I’ve been commissioned for a variation of start-up business logos, event flyers, business cards and label designs, album art, and even illustrations.
Even though I had set a plan to be an Album Cover artist, I can say I am most proud of my logo work. To me, this says I have assisted hundreds of people get there vision out. And for that, I am beyond grateful because of the blind trust. This has built my character and shed light on my ability to be viewed as resourceful.
Something I believe that sets me apart from others is my passion. I say this, because I stayed true to what I believed in. Even when my believers turned to doubters, I trusted the process. My ability to compromise and grasp the unseen is impeccable. I have received many client reviews speaking on how doing business with me has turned their experience(s) into a positive.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
GOD, The universe, my ancestors, my supporters/clients, and people who have kept me encouraged and empowered :))
Contact Info:
- Email: artfiles.vallejo@gmail.com
- Website: Vallejoart.myportfolio.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/xvallejol
- Facebook: facebook.com/vallejoartfiles
- Twitter: twitter.com/xvallejol
- Youtube: youtube.com/vallejol
- SoundCloud: Soundcloud.com/xvallejol
Image Credits:
Graphic design artwork done by Vallejo Lee | www.vallejoart.myportfolio.com Photograph of Woman holding print, taken by Vallejo Lee Photography of wedding party, taken by Vallejo Lee Photo of Vallejo Lee holding Burros, taken by Dacori Jones
