We had the good fortune of connecting with Jerome Tarpley and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jerome, why did you pursue a creative career?
I initially envisioned a career in science, but my academic journey steered me toward a different path. My fascination with the surrealism of Salvador Dali and the simplistic approach of Picasso, alongside a pull towards abstract designs and minimalism, sparked my artistic exploration during high school. This newfound passion for art captivated me, leading me to embrace a career where I could express my creativity and perspective. It was a serendipitous shift that allowed me to discover and fall in love with my true calling in the world of art.
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 art is deeply influenced by the world around me, yet I believe it’s my unique style and creative approach that distinguishes me from other artists. I am particularly proud of contributing to cultural moments, like designing graphics for Coca-Cola’s Black History Month marketing, designing a black history calendar for Pepsi and working on movie posters for Star Wars. These experiences not only highlighted my career but also allowed me to be a part of something larger than myself.
Entering the advertising industry as an African American artist in the 1970’s presented its own set of challenges. The scarcity of diversity often made my journey feel like an uphill battle. However, I persevered through hard work, relentless focus, and an unwavering commitment to my craft. The journey taught me the importance of resilience, the value of community, and the significance of mentoring others. I’ve learned to be humble, to seek help when needed, and to share my own experiences to uplift those around me.
I want the world to understand that my art comes from a place of deep passion and dedication. It’s not just about applying paint to canvas; it’s about bringing visions to life, conveying messages, and touching hearts. Through my work and story, I aim to inspire others to recognize that with hard work and determination, it’s possible to rise from any circumstance. My art is a testament to the belief that creativity can not only bring people together but can flourish against all odds. Ultimately, it’s a journey of turning nothing into something worth taking the time to look at.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
For a weeklong adventure with my best friend, we’d hangout in the more active parts of our area, starting with the Bone Garden Cantina, where the vibe is as good as the food. Later, we’d check out Capers on Main, and enjoy some cocktails. No visit would be complete without diving into the High Museum of Art, where I like to spend time admiring both classic and contemporary works. The Botanical Gardens would definitely be another place to relax with the lush landscapes, artistic topiaries and special events like the Chihuly exhibit. I also got married there!
I’d try to time a visit to coincide with local events, and be sure to attend the Piedmont Park Art Festival, there’s always an awesome creative energy when the city’s artists get together. The Taste of Atlanta would be another highlight, so we could stuff our faces full of amazing food and maybe discover a few new favorite dishes.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My shoutout goes to Mrs. Ethelia Patmagrian, my inspiring mentor at Ringling School of Art, now Ringling College of Art & Design, whose guidance was pivotal in my artistic journey. I also owe immense gratitude to my junior high teacher, Mr. Outerbridge, and high school art teacher, Ms. Stills, for recognizing and nurturing my creative potential early on. Mr. Outerbridge, in particular, encouraged my application to Ringling, at the time a small yet vibrant hub for passionate artists. The demanding environment there, alongside the talented community, fueled my dedication to art, where I ultimately majored in Advertising Design and Illustration.
Website: https://jtarpley.wixsite.com/jerome
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerome-tarpley-4b52964
Other: https://www.fineartmarketplace.com/jerome-tarpley