Meet Jael Brown | Actor, Director, Makeup Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jael Brown and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jael, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
Hmm. This is a hard thing to define. One of my favorite quotes about “legacy” is from Hamilton- “What is a legacy? It’s planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.”

When I think about my legacy, I think about all of those that came before me, and how their journeys directly and indirectly impacted my own. Each time I achieve something, walk onstage and perform, apply makeup to a client, or film a beauty tutorial- I think about the people that made it possible for me to be doing exactly what I am in that moment.

I come from a family where remembering your roots is paramount. We take the time to talk about, study, and honor and give credit to those that came before us, and I truly believe that is where my idea of having a legacy comes from. I want to be able to say that I have truly honored all of the people and artists that have impacted my life, that I upheld their legacy in my own work. I hope that I am able to be a reflection of all of the hope and inspiration they’ve given me.

I hope much of the same when people think of me. I want them to remember me as a great artist, yes- but more importantly, as a good and genuine person that worked to do something meaningful through her art. I want them to think of me and hopefully remember that I helped them to feel seen, to realize their own beauty, power, and ability. And one day, help to inspire them to pursue a dream of their own that then inspires the next generation of artists.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have been an artist for as long as I’ve been on this planet.

I grew up in a very artistic family. The sounds of a myriad of music, voices harmonizing to gospel, shared stories and memories, and the most boisterous laughter have scored my life. No matter what came our way, no matter the obstacle- art was paramount and helped to get us through.

Deciding to pursue art professionally was the easiest, most natural decision- it was never not going to be a part of my life. The actual pursuit, however, has proven very challenging, but also rewarding. It is interesting; when I first started out, it was all about acting. I was strictly a serious actor and wanted nothing to deviate from my focus and chosen course. However, as we all either know or come to learn, life’s journey is never linear- and once you accept the twists and turns, peaks and valleys that come with it, the easier the navigation will be.

My dad got sick and I ended up having to change my course, and suddenly, my life was no longer solely about acting- mainly because I didn’t have as much time for it then. I ended up working at Ulta and being surrounded by a newer love that I was trying so hard to pretend was just a passive hobby. But it was there, at the Lancome counter with my Makeup Momma, Michelle, that I began to truly redefine what makeup and artistry meant to me. Soon, I was using anyone I could as a canvas, building a kit, and finding clients left and right as I built my skill set. When acting and performing began to present opportunity to me again, I learned how much stronger my performances and understanding of my characters became through the use of my makeup artistry. I suddenly learned so much more about the power of marrying aspects of my artistic abilities.

Throughout all of this, I’d been working off and on as an arts educator, and soon- I began to work professionally, on a consistent basis as one. And again, I found ways to tie in what I love to create something that felt like more than just a class, or a makeup session, or a makeup video, or a performance. It became this beautiful amalgamation of my many loves and talents and helped me stand out in spaces because I was able to look at things from so many different points of view- something that has aided me as I also added directing into my skill set.

Stating it that way sounds dream like and easy, but in truth, there was a lot of struggle and heartache that defined these blends and discoveries. Lost opportunities and self doubt. Sometimes months of not getting the work I was looking for and having to rely on work in non-creative fields for survival. But, I kept pushing forward, stumble as I did; and in the moments of the greatest doubt and desire to completely give up, I found solace in the words of those that inspire me, uplift me, and believe in me. I worked hard, sometimes so much so that it was to my own detriment- but I love what I do- so any opportunity to do it, I would jump at and put my all into it and try to offer as much of myself and my abilities as I could. Over time, people saw what I saw (and what I didn’t), and I found myself achieving things I never thought possible, working on jobs I only dreamed of, and telling stories that I so longed to cultivate and share.

My biggest secret? I prayed. I prayed, and cried, and believed that change would come and that my dreams would come true. And that is still very much my story, but now I am starting to see the fruits of my labor and prayers manifesting in ways that surprise me.

Going forward, I hope that I’m able to share my story in a way that helps other people as they go through theirs. I didn’t have the opportunities or money that so many of those around me had, disadvantage was certainly a road-block. But I always believed that if I just kept on dreaming, kept on trying, kept on taking things one step at a time- I would eventually get to “there,” on the other side of it all.

I have this thing I tell myself when I feel defeated- “You can’t give up, you have to meet Viola Davis and thank her for all that she’s done for you and your artistry.” It may seem silly to others, but it is completely serious and sincere and always gives me a boost and encouragement. It would be an honor to create a legacy and solidify my brand to a place where people felt the same about me; where I could be that place of encouragement and uplifting.

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’d definitely want to visit spots that really showcase black art and culture and really help to convey the heart and soul of the city- thankfully, that is plentiful in Atlanta. I would definitely also tell them to visit Renegade Theatre Company in April to check out my girl, Shelsy Titi, in the role of Sally Bowles in Cabaret!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! First, I want to shout out my dear friend, Shelsy Titi who was in a previous edition of the magazine and recommended me for this one. Since high school, her confidence and presence has inspired me and she has consistently encouraged me to realize a stronger, more capable version of myself- always offering advice, support, and opportunity. She is a wonderful friend, brilliant artist and performer, and phenomenal designer and brand owner.

As well, I want to shout out the woman that made me fall in love with makeup artistry, my Makeup Momma, Michelle Carter-Bailey (co-owner and co-founder of Concept Studio in PA and Blank Beauty Cosmetics). She truly believed in me and my ability when I didn’t, taught me so many things, and has always been such a kind, warm, and loving light to me.

And most importantly, I want to shout out my family- especially my Mom (Dr. Jane Brandon-Brown; pastor, writer, crafter) and my sister (writer and director, Christina Brandon-Gomez). Both are brilliant artists that have inspired me my entire life. They have the most creative minds, and much of my creativity is cultivated from being around them. Some of our best ideas, together and apart, have come from chats around the kitchen table. I am always supported by them, and amazed by the creative projects they pursue and dedicate themselves to.

I am so blessed to be surrounded by such brilliantly creative and supportive women!

Instagram: @jaebella13

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JaeBella

Image Credits
Erica Victoria Photography (Bridal) Samuel Fernandez (Stage)