Today we’d like to introduce you to Gary Javier.
Gary, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My name is Gary Javier. I’ve been apart of the growing art and creative scene for about five years now. I started to get attention by going out in elaborate outfits, which would only get more elaborate over the years. That attention helped to open doors for me. People wanted me to model for them or attend their events. At the time, it was difficult for me. I was fresh out of high school and had no clue what I was going to do with myself. I took things slowly. Things were easier at my own pace. In 2018, I attended Durag Fest. I wore an outfit I made myself and that was the moment I became a brand I feel. I made such an impact because no one here was doing what I did. I saw myself on so many different platforms, captured by so many different photographers, online publications, the whole thing was crazy. In that moment, I knew that I wanted to keep the momentum going. I knew that I had to keep people wanting more. So I became the person that would put up places dressed like I was ready for someone’s runway until my name was known. I started doing more modeling, styling, networking, fashion shows. I was on a high and I did now want to come down.
In 2018 I was casted to be a part of a show produced by UrbanSocial TV, “ The situations circle.” I did two seasons with the show. We talked about things like; gun violence, politics, religion, and even some lighter subjects such as dating, breaking gender norms and things like that. Everything I did was to broaden my reach and impact in my community. The show definitely opened even more doors for me because it allowed me to show my personality. I eventually decided to step away from the show for personal reasons, but I loved every moment of it.
In 2019 I creative directed, styled and designed for my first big shoot with Sancho Smalls. I had ten models! The theme was “Alice In Wonderland.” I am still so proud of the team and myself for that shoot. It eventually was a feature in Vogue Italia’s online publication. Image my excitement when I saw my work, my designs, being published on any online publication, let alone VOGUE! This shoot was ironically shot a year ago today.
Eventually, I started to find other things that I enjoy. Such as photography. I don’t consider myself a “photographer,” but I have been doing a lot of photography work. I’ve been learning as I go and only getting better. Constantly trying to challenge myself and push my work to the next level. I’m a growing brand that touches on all forms of creative expression.
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?
The road hasn’t been smooth, but I prefer that. Being a black gay male closes some doors, of course. However, the issue then becomes being put in a box because of that same reason. There have been times I’ve been asked to do thing to simply be the spokesperson for all gay people. I truly hate that. I can’t speak for all people!
Being in a city where art isn’t really a big deal to most (yet), it can be hard to find work. And when you do find work, it’s not something that really moves you or inspires you. That’s the reason I started doing my own photography. I felt that only I could deliver what I wanted to show the world.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I really can’t even put a name to what I do. I literally do it all. Brand consulting, photography, styling, makeup, creative directing, and more. I’m a one-man team which I am proud of. The fact that I can do all of these things on my own is a blessing. I feel truly blessed to have these talents and skills. I can’t take all the credit, though. I have great friends that have taught me so much and still teach me things everyday. I’m so grateful for opportunities like this. It shows me that my work is not in vein.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I am 100% me every second of every day. I think that’s something that people either love or hate about me. I think that has been a big part of my success. I’m always trying to better myself and my work. I don’t ever want to stay in a box. That has proven to be beneficial for me. I think that people recognize my constant elevation and growth. Everything that I put out is better than the last in some way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://instagram.com/gary.javi?igshid=1neg74r2mgkae
- Email: GaryClark397@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/gary.javi?igshid=1neg74r2mgkae
Image Credit:
Vogue pics: @Sancho.smalls @Kcmedleymua
@chynahmo
@babyhairprincess
@biglipbonita
@agotakumdit
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