We had the good fortune of connecting with Atlanta artist and filmmaker Dario “G.R.A.C.E.” Harris and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi G.R.A.C.E., what role has risk played in your life or career?
I’m a firm believer in the saying, “No risk, no reward.”

You have to ask yourself what are willing to put on the line in order to reach your desired goals. Every time I’ve took risks and stayed focused on the mission I’ve come out on top. Some goals are attainable within days or months. And some goals can take years to materialize. You just have to stay the course and remember it’s a marathon not a sprint.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I make music and films that reflects our times. I think my background as a military veteran sets me apart as a musician and filmmaker. Born in the south (Tallahassee), raised between Atlanta, and Miami as a kid, and living in LA the early part of my adulthood, to settling back in Atlanta.

I’m excited about the relationships I’m building within my community and the people I’m able to reach. I recently started a clothing brand (not t-shirt brand) that was inspired by a song I wrote about injustice titled “Just Us”. I recently partnered with HipHop Gives Back nonprofit organization which focuses on (F.A.M.E.) Fundraising, Awareness, Mentoring and Education. A percentage of the proceeds from the “Just Us” merchandise collection will be donated to HHGB.

I got to where I am today by not being afraid dive out on faith. I do it brave. I do it scared. I do it calm. I do it nervous. I just do it. I’m more afraid of not trying than I am of trying something I feel will benefit me greatly.

The road hasn’t been easy but it’s been purposeful. I still have a long way to go but I’m grateful.

I overcome most challenges by understanding I’m just a passenger in the ship God is steering. I don’t really stress about anything. I do my best and leave the rest to God. One of my favorite lines in a song I wrote goes,

“You can learn a lot watching people deal with their mishaps/
It’s beauty in the struggle, I advise you not to skip that/”

I want the world to know love is the answer, not war.

When you think of me and my brand I want you to know without a doubt that if it’s not progressive, beneficial or purposeful, I’m not involved.

Life is short. Define your purpose and make it worth it.

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?
Good question! Atlanta is filled with so many great places.

Food and drinks – Breakfast at Barneys (Downtown Atlanta), Calle Latina (Downtown Decatur), Hal’s Steakhouse (Buckhead), Rosie’s (Downtown Atlanta), Bon Ton’s (Downtown Atlanta), BQE Lounge (Edgewood), Tassili’s Raw Reality Cafe (East Point)

If I’m not recording or writing my hang out places are at house parties, bbq’s, at home, or adding a stamps to my passports. You’re welcome to stop by my house one sunny weekend and let me cook for you, play my latest recordings, go golfing, play chess, or shoot pool.

You can’t go wrong with The Tyler Perry Studios, the Ga Aquarium, World of Coke Cola, Civil Rights Museum, Dr King’s house, the Trap house, The Escape room, Sip N Paint, the High Museum. I mean after all, Its Atl. Whether you want tape dance, go for a hike or visit a strip club, Atlanta has options.

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?
IG – @mysticchild IG – @chevyrevies
IG – @musiciantailorllc
IG – @brownie_wilson
IG – @that_boy_taylormade

Website: https://justusmerch.myshopify.com

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/gracethemartyr

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/gracethemartyr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gracethemartyr

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/grace1831?sub_confirmation=1

Image Credits
shot by @iofjz on IG

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.