Today we’d like to introduce you to Roy Handy.
Roy, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I’m a Visual Designer from New Orleans, currently based in Atlanta, who also has a strong background in Photography. I have a degree in Graphic Design, but somehow I fell in love with photography in the midst of “finding myself”. I used photography as a form of therapy, and it allowed me to show the beauty of the world through my own eyes. Design will always be near and dear to me, but photography was there for me when I felt there was nothing else.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I currently do commercial photography, but in general, I love shooting portraits. I love the process of being able to open a person’s mind through conversation and learn more about them during a session, then show them a different side of themselves through this art form. It’s pretty cool hearing people’s stories and seeing how it plays out in their photos.
Recently, I created a photo series titled “#000”, which is based on the appreciation of black culture, black women and the relatable journeys they’ve had with their hair. I created this project as a commemorative piece in honor of my mother who struggled with the highs and lows of losing her hair while dealing with breast cancer. The amount of women I photographed in the series all shared a piece of themselves with me within each of the stories they told. The sole purpose of this project was to show the reality of what not only black people but specifically black women, deal with when it comes to their hair and how we should love what we’ve grown with.
Do you think conditions are generally improving for artists? What more can cities and communities do to improve conditions for artists?
Personally, I feel that with the correct use of social media, publicity and recognition for talented artists has become a lot easier. Connecting and building with various individuals in the same space as yours is way more accessible now, and it helps build a community with ease. The one thing I wish Atlanta had more of is a larger art scene. I remember there was an annual show in the city titled “FLUX” that was really nice. Not sure what happened to it, but it was amazing seeing artists come together and put on a full night of shows throughout the city. Hopefully, I can find a way to bring more of that here someday.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Well, the majority of my day to day work can be found on my Instagram @Old_Orleans. My visual design work, as well as photography, contact & booking, can be found on my website royehandy.com. Also, if anyone would like to purchase a #000 coffee table book, that can be found at royehandy.com/shop
Contact Info:
- Website: royehandy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/old_orleans/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Old_Orleans
Image Credit:
Roy Handy
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
JOY WHITE
October 17, 2018 at 10:09 pm
Dear Sir/Madam: I am so very proud of Mr. Roy Handy III. Roy, the steps you have taken, have
brought you into 2018. These steps have also indicated that you are capable of accomplishing your goals, and you possess the tenacity to stay on track. Your determination to make your dreams a reality is an innate quality…a combination of your trust in the creator, and believing in yourself. Your achievements are not determined by your ability alone, but by the desire you possess to reach them. I pray that you will continue to share with the world your GOD-GIVEN TALENTS.
Electronically Yours