Meet Darnelle Louis-Jacques | Artist
We had the good fortune of connecting with Darnelle Louis-Jacques and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Darnelle, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
The most important thing I’ve done as a parent is to model self-trust and follow-through. I tell my children what I intend to do, and then I do it. When they see me accomplish the very goals I’ve spoken aloud, their faces light up. They say, “Mom, I knew you could do it… we believe in you.” In those moments, I see how my actions fuel their own courage to pursue what’s been resting on their hearts.
For me, parenting isn’t just about words, it’s about living the example. My children are learning that discipline, consistency, and hard work always lead to a harvest. That glow in their eyes tells me they’re not just watching; they’re preparing to take their own steps with confidence.
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.
My journey as an artist has been nothing short of a roller coaster, marked by loss, healing, faith, and transformation. My initiation into painting began after the passing of my mother in Spring 2017. In my grief, I created a heart character that became my outlet for the pain of losing her, going through divorce, and navigating life’s challenges.
In May 2019, a tragic car accident left me unable to walk on my right foot and out of work from my job at a mental health hospital. During that stillness, I began painting the visions I had long carried within me. One day, my brother asked me to paint him. I hesitated, unsure if I could, but gave it a try and discovered a gift for portraiture I didn’t know I had. From then, I kept exploring. That same year, I hosted an event called Art Is My Therapy: Networking House Party, my declaration to the world that painting was not just a pastime but a path.
The years that followed tested me. I took commissions but struggled with direction, unwilling to paint just for notoriety. In 2021, I moved to Charlotte and hit an unexpected low, creatively stifled and doubting myself. In 2023, I returned to Georgia to care for my father as he began showing signs of dementia. Balancing motherhood, partnership, and caregiving while longing to create was, and still is, an enormous challenge. I wrestled with imposter syndrome, cabin fever, and self-doubt.
But I made a promise to myself: I would step out of my comfort zone and show my art, no matter what. That leap began with the Black Girl Art Show Atlanta in 2023. In 2024, I submitted to EmpowerHer, curated by Tisha Smith, and to my surprise, I was accepted. That experience connected me with inspiring artists and curators, and it reignited my spark. I began showing up more, attending artist talks, exhibitions, and immersing myself in the creative community.
It was through those moments that I officially met fellow artist Reinilda Blair. She is Dominican and I am Haitian, so our connection felt destined. When she asked me to collaborate on a show celebrating Haiti and the Dominican Republic as one unified island, I was humbled and honored. Together, we birthed Ayiti-Quisqueya: Nexus of the Taíno in August 2024. Though I aimed to complete 12 pieces and finished 8, I walked away proud, knowing I had given my all. The exhibition was a success, powerful, healing, and deeply unifying.
Through this journey, I have learned that my biggest obstacle was myself. Fear, doubt, and hesitation were my enemies. But once I confronted that truth, prayed, shed tears, forgave myself and others I needed to forgive, I found freedom. I now know I can do absolutely anything when I walk in the power God placed within me.
What I want the world to know about Art By DLJ is this: my work is rooted in righteousness, mental health awareness, culture, unity, and love. My art is my testimony, my healing, and my offering. I create not only to express myself but to inspire others who feel like giving up, to remind them that even in the lowest valleys, there is still light. We were all made to create, and through art, I choose to create beauty that heals.
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’ve been in Georgia on and off, so I wouldn’t call myself the ultimate tour guide, but I do know how to craft a memorable week. I’d start with food—because breaking bread is the best way to experience culture. We’d savor soulful flavors at Amicia’s Creole Cuisine and Lou’s Catering, enjoy something fresh and vibrant at R. Thomas, and for plant-based options, I’d take them to HerbanFix or Cinnaholic for vegan cinnamon rolls. For a fun night out, Convo Restaurant and Lounge sets the right vibe, and for dessert, we’d finish with Eighty7Sweets, where the vegan ice cream is unforgettable.
For exploring, I’d keep it balanced between nature and creativity. Georgia has beautiful parks where you can breathe, reflect, and people-watch. Depending on the season, there are always local events and festivals happening—you just have to keep an eye out. And of course, no visit would be complete without time in the art galleries. Supporting local artists not only connects you with the heartbeat of the community but also gives you stories and perspectives you won’t find anywhere else.
So the itinerary would be simple but meaningful: eat well, explore nature, enjoy the culture, and dive deep into the art scene. That, to me, is the best way to experience Georgia.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
To my fiancé, Akbar Yungai, your love mirrors God’s unconditional love. You remind me daily that partnership is power, and devotion is freedom.
To my children, my forever cheerleaders, thank you for lighting the path with your belief in me. Your pride fuels my steps.
To my brothers: Clyve, Vladimir, Odson Louis-Jacques and Rodney Box you are my tribe, my anchors, my protection. And to my sister-cousins: Charlene, Natasha, Nadine, Nadia, Yali, Cathia, Linda, and Cassy—thank you for covering me in laughter, love, upliftment and prayer.
To my nieces and nephews—thank you for crowning me as the dopest aunty alive. You remind me that joy multiplies when it’s passed down.
To my friends, too many to name, yet never too many to treasure. I thank you for checking in, pushing me higher, and stretching my vision when I couldn’t see clearly.
To all who pray for me your prayers are pillars. You’ve kept me standing on solid ground when the winds of life tried to move me.
A special ShoutOut to Myron Golden, whose wisdom through YouTube has shifted my mindset, lifted my spirit, and carved new clarity into my walk.
And yes, even to those who doubted, rejected, or misjudged me, I give thanks. Your resistance became my reflection. You taught me accountability, strength, and the art of rising without bitterness.
Each of you, seen or unseen, near or far has poured into my becoming. And for that, I rise.
Website: https://artbydlj.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artbydlj?igsh=MTdhOXN5eDdrenhoNQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16piY3fcK5/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Youtube: https://youtube.com/@theofficialartbydlj?si=S9eCA3HPWNhtZVyS
Image Credits
Head Shot photo credit: Immanuel Laidlaw
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