Meet Joni Elaine | Filmmaker & Dancer

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

Hi Joni, looking back, what do you think was the most difficult decision you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was to fully give over my dreams, plans, and failures to God. As a human being living in such a fast world, it’s so easy to believe you have the possibility of controlling the challenges you may encounter. It’s so easy to think you can figure it all out, but all that ever does is stress you out in the end. When I decided to hand over my business and overall creative career to God, I was finally able to feel content with whatever challenges may come my way as a creative in this world.

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 am a filmmaker who has a deep interest in history and vintage cinema. I started creating experimental short films at the young age of 14 after I watched Lana Del Rey’s music video ‘Video Games’ for the first time. I was intrigued by the angelic, melancholic-nostalgic vibe that her visuals gave off which led me to create videos in a similar way. The Old Hollywood aesthetic is one of my favorite art styles to implement into my projects. I love vintage glamour and its extravagance. It’s a huge part of my identity today and a huge part of my overall aesthetic as a filmmaker. Overtime, I’ve had to get to know myself and my personal aesthetic as a creative. It hasn’t been an easy ride, but I think that’s what makes the journey interesting to talk about. I’ve learned how to be myself even during times where it may seem like it’s impossible or not allowed.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I find myself enjoying the little things in Los Angeles. I love the City of Angels and love to show my friends around whenever I can. Whether it’s the beach, or a skate park, or a random run-down theater on the block, I find joy in every part of the city. The most interesting people I’ve met have been in the valley. Topanga Canyon is one of the most intriguing places I’ve ever been in my life so far. I met so many relatable souls in the valley and learned so much about that feeling of what it means to be free. I like to share that feeling with my friends back home in Atlanta. Atlanta has those beautiful lush-green trees and is absolutely my vibe. Whenever I want to have a chill day with my friends, we like to go bike riding on some trails, or do some cloud gazing at any of the beautiful green parks in the city. Just me, a matcha, the hot Atlanta sun, and my best friend- a recipe for a great day!

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 like to dedicate my shoutout to the creator of the universe. Without God, I wouldn’t have made it through the challenges I faced. He has placed me in the right positions at the right times every. single. time. He has given me everything I need in life to succeed and will continue to do so. I am forever grateful for the love and mercy I am shown and the amazing people who are constantly being placed in my life.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonielaine_/

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

Other: https://www.instagram.com/nopopularfruit/

Image Credits
Joni Elaine
Maria G Villarreal