Today we’d like to introduce you to ShawnKole.
Hi ShawnKole, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born in Kansas City, raised in St. Louis. I’m lucky enough to have had an uncle who was an artist too. He helped me sell my first drawing when I was around seven years old. It was just a neighbor, but it stuck with me. I started drawing anything I could and it lead me to animation, and eventually filmmaking. I graduated from Tuskegee University with my Bachelor’s in English to deepen my connection to my culture and storytelling. I then graduated from Georgia State University with a Master’s degree on the film production track. I wanted to learn as much as I could about the entire process.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has not been smooth in the slightest but, that shows my passion and resilience. I understood before pursuing my art that this is a grueling field. There are very few directors that look like me, and it is tough to get established. I’ve had to pivot, but i’ll never give up on my art.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m a visual artist. I started young, drawing, painting and making mixed media art. I’ve expanded to digital art, photography, filmmaking, and animation. I’m known for blending mediums, with a saturated and whimsical Afro surrealist style. This unique style is a reflection of how my relation to my culture, and identity have shaped my lived experiences. It led me to working on my current project, a rock opera title Rage. I’m still pretty early in my career but i’m most proud of being able to connect to my community through the art I create.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Networking is still a challenge for me because i’m not a big talker. What works best for me is getting more active in my local community. There are so many amazing free events across Atlanta! The art community here is very welcoming and supportive no matter where you are in your career. The collaboration is beautiful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGe6ywuFVA/PeFXT_C7KqwaSse_b2vBVg/watch?utm_content=DAGe6ywuFVA&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=h6cffb59887
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rage_official_film?igsh=MXJqZjExazU3MTZkag%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@rageofficialfilm?si=lioD0NFGPY4prIMW
