Conversations with Jamaal Lee

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamaal Lee.

Hi Jamaal, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I began drawing when I was five, inspired by shows like Blue’s Clues, Rugrats, Looney Tunes, and Batman: The Animated Series. My grandparents encouraged that interest from the beginning. They supported me, provided the art supplies I needed, and helped a childhood hobby grow into a lasting passion.

I still prefer creating artwork by hand, and I’ve carried that love of illustration into my work as the author and creator of YATES: Volume One. I’m grateful to my grandparents for helping me become the artist I am today.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the hardest parts has been learning to keep going when progress feels slow, especially when I can see others reaching milestones I’m still working toward. Building a creative career takes patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn from setbacks.

Those experiences have helped me grow. My faith keeps me grounded, and I’m grateful for the strength to continue pursuing my vision, one step at a time.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m a traditional illustrator and the author and creator of YATES: Volume One. I make much of my artwork by hand, using vibrant color and imaginative storytelling to bring the world and characters of YATES to life. I’m also developing my digital-art skills, but drawing by hand remains central to how I create.

What makes me proudest is that I’ve stayed true to my vision while continuing to grow. Seeing people beyond my family and friends discover YATES has been especially meaningful. I want my work to reflect my own perspective, and I’m determined to keep building a future for my mother and myself through it.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I consider myself a risk-taker, though I’ve learned that a worthwhile risk needs purpose and preparation. Traveling to the London Book Fair was a major investment for me, but it gave me firsthand experience in publishing and the chance to make valuable connections.

Creating the Black and White Edition of YATES: Volume One was another risk. I wanted to make the story more accessible to readers and give this edition its own identity. Inspired in part by the visual storytelling of manga, I revisited the artwork and presentation rather than simply removing the color from the original edition.

I’m now exploring a clothing line and developing a YATES plush prototype. Each step requires careful decisions, but each also brings me closer to the larger vision I have for YATES. I know risks don’t guarantee success. For me, taking them means believing in the work, learning as I go, and moving forward responsibly.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.jamaallee.com
• Instagram: Letsgoyates
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1FA3ZRY87v/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Twitter: Letsgoyates
• Youtube: LetsGoYates