Meet Kimberly Blake | Actress , Director , Writer

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

Hi Kimberly, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Art has always spoken to me in ways that nothing else can. When I’m feeling sad, I listen to music or re-binge my favorite series, when I’m feeling inspired I may go see a local musical or play, When I feel isolated I write and explore that feeling, and so on and so forth. Art has a healing element engraved in its DNA, almost as if it was created to be the key to everyone’s inner battles. Creativity is a force so powerful that it can pull people out of depression, inspire people to create new tomorrows, and even cure broken hearts. This is why I was drawn to it. I want to be a vessel for all of the “smaller” people around the world to be heard. The people who don’t have the strength to be heard, the people who are screaming but nobody listens, the people who are blatantly ignored by everyday life– because the truth is, these people aren’t really small, in fact they are such a big part of what makes this world go around, they just need somebody to hear them.

So why did I pursue an artistic career? To make an impact in such a way that others may not understand. And for that art to stay on this Earth for my kid’s kid’s kid’s kids to grasp. To keep my people’s stories alive. Because community and representation are important. And I want to be apart of something so liberating.

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.
Well first and foremost, I LOVE the drama genre. I have always enjoyed movies that make me cry or make me reflect or give me a sort of awakening. My brand definitely reflects my love for this. Majority of my stories will make you think as well. I like to write in media res so my scripts tend to jump around past, present, and future.

When people see my work — whether its acting, writing, or directing — I want them to be able to take a step back and think “huh. How can I do better?”. I want my movies to become almost therapeutic in a way, allowing people to see themselves as they are, in their natural form, their most vulnerable form. on top of that, I want people to step back and think ” How can our community do better?” and then, “How can we do better as a society?”.

It took me quite a while to gain the confidence to put my thoughts onto paper or onto the screen. I have always had a vulnerability issue. I was never comfortable with the idea of showing who I was on the inside. I was always under so much pressure to be perfect, all day everyday. I still feel that pressure everyday. So I guess one of my biggest obstacles was and is letting go of that. Letting go of the coward in you who is too good for feelings. Letting go of that voice that tells you vulnerability is weakness. I struggle everyday to show who I am through my work, and the only way to show good and honest work, is being honest and open while executing it. This is not an easy obstacle to overcome because it is a battle with your inner self. it takes a lot of meditation, self talk, and deep diving.

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.
So honestly, I’ve been horrible about going out during my time here in Atlanta, so I am sorry if this list is a bit sad! I love going to escape rooms ( thank you for putting me on Justin), so I’d probably take them to The Escape Game at the Battery. It’s the perfect because when you’re done you can walk around to the bars/restaurants that are open over there and not have to get back in your car and drive somewhere to eat. Everything is so accessible but beware when there’s a game– that traffic is HORRIBLE! Another thing I would do is see what local POC art shows are happening in town. There are a lot of dope POC artists in Atlanta who showcase their work for the public to see! Ooooo Maybe I would even take them by the painted duck for a bowl. Food wise, of course I would have to take them to Ponce to try out the eats! They have a Ramen spot in there that is just amazing! Lastly I would be sure to hang on The Roof @ Ponce City Market, The view is to die for and the vibes are great!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give a HUGE shoutout to my family and friends! You know who you are! Thank you for all of the times you had to drop what you were doing to hear one of my film ideas or to give me feedback on one of my audition tapes or read my latest script. Y’all are the realest and I couldn’t do it without your love and support. Also, thank you for giving me a shoulder to cry on when I need it the most. Thank you to my SON Marcus for being the BEST (almost) 8 year old EVER. He is literally the most understanding person ever and tells all his teachers how awesome his mom is 😉 . Also, shoutout to John D’Aquino for being the best mentor! Thank you to Jared Wofford over at Catapult Acting Studios for being an amazing teacher! Thank you to you for taking the time to read this article and support me. Thank you thank you thank you! I’m sure there’s so many more people to thank so if I left you out, just know that I’m grateful for you.

Website: www.kimberlymblake.com

Instagram: @Kimmblake

Facebook: @Kimmblake

Image Credits
Marcigliano Photography Taylor Aidan Amari Deanna Griffin