Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamelle Funches.
Jamelle, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve always had an interest in art. My uncle James was an artist and as a child, I would attempt to replicate his paintings and sketches that were throughout my grandparent’s house. Throughout grade school, I would randomly draw cartoons and portraits of friends, musicians, athletes, etc. as a hobby.
This continued until the summer before my junior year at Savannah State University, where I was introduced to Adobe Illustrator and my “career” as a digital artist began. A childhood friend, Kenny Thomas, and I would meet daily at my parent’s house during the summer to create designs that we eventually turned into a clothing line called True Slacker. To our surprise, we received a very positive response when we released the designs on campus the following year. Due to a few unfortunate events, the brand fizzled out. After years of encouragement from friends, I decided to get back into illustrating a little over a year ago.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a easy path. The initial investment of purchasing the hardware and software required to produce quality artwork was a heavy financial burden. It required me to minimize social interactions and limit unnecessary spending. In addition, refreshing my skills in Adobe Illustrator has been difficult because the program has been updated and much has changed since my previous experience using the software.
Also, there is a sense of vulnerability when sharing your artwork and it can be discouraging when it isn’t received how you envisioned. However, I can rely on my family and close friends to work through these emotions and remain motivated.
We’d love to hear more about your art.
The concept of Rough Draft is being fully committed to your craft/purpose. When you are dedicated to your craft, your previous works tend to look like a “rough draft” in comparison to your most recent project.
As a creative, I am most proud that people are able to distinguish my artwork from others and appreciate the nuances in it. Rough Draft, LLC specializes in visual illustrations where imagination and reality are combined. We are currently developing a product line geared around our artwork which is scheduled to launch in 2021.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
For years I have shied away from social media and preferred to work on projects behind the scenes. However, what I am learning is once you begin to walk in your purpose of what God has called you to do; your “light” will no longer allow you remain in the background.
Thus far it is becoming apparent that focus, consistency, and the will to preserve are required in one’s pursuit of success. Most importantly, we have learned it is imperative that all business documentation is in order and must be processed prior to an adequate launch of products.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mr_coltrane/
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