Meet Claude Langley Jr. | Visual Artist and Graphic Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Claude Langley Jr. and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Claude, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My business was created out of a lack of opportunity being presented at the time and by finding my way in both the professional and creative worlds. I was in a position of making a life transition and leaning more toward my artistic talents instead of the things I was doing prior. I felt making a business out of my skillsets would make me more serious about everything and stick with it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I would say what sets me apart from other artists and photographers is my “why” when creating images. We can all take a nice photo, but the details in the pictures are what set us apart. I am trained in architecture and design, so I focus on things like geometry and line work when capturing my imagery. I’m not always focused solely on the subject but more so on the order of the image, even down to the items or people in the bokeh of the photo. I am most proud of the life transition I made from moving fast to slowing down and focusing on what matters, having longevity, and solely betting on myself when all other options seemed unattainable. I got where I am professionally through hard work, my character, and being a person of my word. I’m grateful for those who took an opportunity on me and my ideas and let me show what I was capable of. It has not been an easy journey, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world. I overcame all my challenges, internally and externally, through focus, prayer, and sticking to the vision I’ve had for myself since I was young – I didn’t always know how I would get where I wanted to be. Still, I knew I would get there, and luckily, things continued to work out in my favor. Out of the many lessons I’ve learned along the way, two of the biggest lessons are to have tunnel vision regarding your dreams and goals and not let anyone else deter you from what you see as possible. The second lesson would have to be to lean on God’s plan more than your own – you’d be surprised by what he has in store for you. I want others in similar positions out there to know that it’s never too late to follow your path and that at all levels of life, change happens when you put forth the effort to make it happen.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m usually traveling for work myself, so when I’m home, I have a routine that makes me appreciate being home. I would most likely take them for a drink and lunch at Bronze on H Street, where they can have the best cocktails and top-tier food in the space of culture and class. Afterward, drop by one of the many clothing stores like A Ma Maniere or Somewhere for some quick get-fly shit. I’d probably end the night on a rooftop having dinner, and if something is going on in the city, like a pop-up event, definitely show face there.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would also like to shout out the brand Drank Pouch, run by Charlene Hebron and Domonique Marriette.

Website: visualsbyclaude.com

Instagram: visualsbyclaude