Meet Raylen Thomas: Graphic Artist

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

Hi Raylen, we’d love for you to start things off by telling us something about your industry that we and others not in the industry might be unaware of?
I think outsiders are unaware that artists don’t always have good days or moments. As an artist, we are human beings just like everyone else. Although it appears we may possibly be magical creatures, mental health issues are often present. Unfortunately, mental illness does not discriminate because we’re artists. In fact, we deal with stress, anxiety, trauma, fear, hurt, and every other emotion as others. Without having a clear-mindset and positive state of being, as an artist, the creative process becomes challenging. The creative process requires plenty of mental tasking. This process begins with an idea, which translates to a picture. Imagine trying to complete a project and mentally your focus is not on your project. However, we have to overcome all those challenges and create. If anyone knows any artists, my advice is, please respect their creative environment. Even though artists may tend to distance them when they are trying to get into a creative space, respectfully allow them space to get through the process.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It definitely was not easy getting to the point where I am today. Underrayted Media was established in 2014 and since that time, I’ve been tested in so many ways. Nonetheless, I believe every moment was preparation for something greater. The name “Underrayted” came from feeling like my work wasn’t appreciated or valued properly. Then I learned my biggest set back wasn’t anyone but myself. I underrated my artistic abilities. I limited what I could and could not do, before giving others a fair chance to appreciate my work. Once I stopped letting fear hold me back, I realized my greatest power was self. My strengths are specializing with smaller brands and artists because I can see their vision and help them. When I work with people I believe in, it gives me a drive and passion that’s hard to explain. When I am scrolling on social media and I see my artwork multiple times, the sense of accomplishments takes over. Telling yourself, I DID THAT, money cannot buy that sense of gratitude. It’s one of the greatest feelings I’ve felt. Growing in this world of media is exciting. Although I’m enjoying the slow pace ride to success, I appreciate and respect the journey of being an artist so much more.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For the best blackened chicken Alfredo in the city, I would take them to “Westside Pizzeria”. They grow their own vegetables, therefore you have to try their salads to appreciate the taste of freshness. Then for pizza, let’s keep it simple and go with MOD’s Pizza. MOD’s is the Subway of the pizza world. You pick your own fresh ingredients as you watch the process of building your own pizza with fresh ingredients. For the bars, I would suggest are anywhere on Auburn Ave, Peter St, and the local bars in East Atlanta Village or downtown Decatur. Downtown Decatur has a lot to offer in short walking distances, great for evenings and weekends. For specialty shopping and socializing, I would suggest Little Five points area, (don’t be confused by the train station named similar) tons of hidden gems, boutiques, and restaurants. Finally nightlife, I would suggest the Ubar or Elleven45.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, my high school art teacher S.Helms. She saw something in me, that I didn’t see in myself until years later. She helped mold and shape my artistic foundation that allows me a career to do what I love. Also, another special shout out to my mom A. Thomas for believing in my talents and allowing me to grow into the artist I am today. Lastly, my older brother T. Thomas for inspiring to explore art from the point of view and making it seem cool. Without any of those individuals playing the roles they have, it would not be possible to have the foundation embedded in me to be the artist that I am today.

Website: underraytedmedia.com
Instagram: @underrayted

Image Credits
Underrayted Media, LLC