Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe Stu.
Hi Joe, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in the epicenter of hip-hop culture in Bronx, New York. I had the cultural advantage as a youth exposed to all the elements of hip-hop as well as opportunities, such as being selected in a Columbia University youth program. This sent me on a path of entrepreneurship and planted the seeds as an educator.
After graduating from Clark Atlanta University I relocated to Atlanta and became a tattoo artist. I also took the time to develop as an MC/producer in Atlanta’s underground hip hop scene. I’ve been able to combine those educational/music skills as a member of Soul Food Cypher A 501-(C)(3) nonprofit organization that utilizes freestyle rap and lyricism to transform individuals and communities.
My mission is to utilize artistic skill to elevate the craft and educate students I teach. I’m well on the way as an educator/MC/visual artist who brings their expertise to students from across all age ranges.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
There have been many setbacks, failures, and false starts. Divorce and failed businesses, took a lot wind out of me, yet all of these events help me grow. I’ve lost relationships from a lack of time, which is linked to my dedication to my craft. Time management is an area I’ve had to focus on more. I have a son, so it’s important to balance time and be intentional with how that time is spent. I’ve had many financial struggles along the way as well. Thankfully, I can utilize my different skills to generate income, but both of these struggles come with the territory of being an artist.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Joe Stu is a multi-faceted artist skilled in many disciplines. My first love is music (hip hop primarily) a veteran emcee from Atlanta ,GA by way of the Bronx, NY who has over ten years as a recording artist. Throughout my music career I’ve shared the stage with Talib Kweli, Brand Nubian, Mobb Deep, Planet Asia and Naughty by Nature.
Outside of being an emcee I’m also an accomplished visual artist in several mediums. My visual art endeavors include twenty years of experience as a tattoo artist With published work in several tattoo publications, such as Urban Ink and Pain Magazine. The project I’m currently working on is entitled Classic Material. the six part series is based on classic hip hop albums titles throughout different eras of hip hop. Each selection was based on the cultural impact, craftsmanship, and timeless nature of each album. The aim of this project is to highlight classic bodies of work in a hip-hop that are both popular as well as lesser known groundbreaking albums, which shifted the culture forward.
My Cultural Currency series, is a multimedia project focused on prominent civil rights leaders, abolitionists, and freedom fighters. Each figure is featured on a fictional currency and includes important imagery connected to each figure’s personal story. Cultural Currency has been featured in the Articulate ATL art show, Trap Music Museum, and The Future Dead Artist Gallery. Currently the series has been integrated as an educational tool in Fulton County Public Schools.
I currently serve as a Visual Arts elementary teacher with over a decade of experience, as well as being a Hip Hop Studies professor at Clark Atlanta University.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Music Apps
Garageband
Native Instruments Maschine
Pro Tools
Art Apps
Adobe Suite
Books
The Come Up: An Oral History of the Rise of Hip-Hop
Hip Hop Wars: Dr. Tricia Rose
Dilla Time: The Life and Afterlife of J Dilla: Dan Charnas
The Big Payback: Dan Charnas
The Big Payback: The History of the Business of Hip-Hop
Pricing:
- Tattoo 50/hr
Contact Info:
- Website: https://fvr.fan/joestu
- Instagram: @joestu94
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joestu2020
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-stewart-m-a-86426417
- Youtube: @88joestu
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/joestu
Image Credits
Stephanie Elay
