We had the good fortune of connecting with Richard Jones Jr and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Richard, why did you pursue a creative career?
I wouldn’t say I pursued a career in art, rather I grew up with several creative outlets and just had to realize that they were technically careers. I’ve been engaged in multiple creative outlets such as photography, videography, and acrylic painting since a very young age, so much so I only viewed them as hobbies I did for my own personal enjoyment. It wasn’t until college that I realized that these hobbies could actually translate into different career paths and since then I’ve actually started to share more of my art on social media to broaden my audience and build my network as a creative.
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 think what sets my art apart from others is the intent behind what I create. No matter what I’m creating, whether it be a painting, a photo series, a short film, or even clothing designs, I always want there to be a message behind what I make. Some of my most proud moments as a creative have been when I am making something for those I care about the most. I wouldn’t really say I’m that far professionally to be quite frank, If anything I feel like I am just getting started. That itself is a lesson, don’t ever feel like you’ve made it, or have reached your peak. You should always be wanting to grow and learn, especially as an artist in the digital world because new forms of art are constantly being introduced, so you have to be willing to learn as you go. The only thing I would want people to know about my story is that it is just beginning.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well I currently stay in Atlanta, by way of Pittsburgh, PA, and to be honest I be in the house. If I were to go out though, i’d probably do something chill like go get food at one of my favorite places so either Little Azio pizza & pasta, Bartaco, or Aamar’s Indian Cuisine. Then after that probably go to Piedmont Park or Ponce City Market to chill, or Cascade on a Sunday if I want to feel like T.I in ATL. Then when it’s late i’ll probably take them to Jeni’s ice cream or Sublime Donuts. Another honorable mention would have to be Mama’s 24 hour Mexican and margarita drive thru. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I think it’s only right I shoutout my alma mater, Morehouse College, considering I just graduated. Ever since I stepped foot on Morehouse’s campus I just knew that my life would change for the better. Spending four years advancing my education with Black men who are aspiring to be doctors, lawyers, entrepreneurs, filmmakers, and countless other professions was not only inspirational, but also helped me embrace my individuality. Morehouse, just like an other HBCU, is a life changing experience that I would not trade for anything in the world, because it not only helped me grow us a person, but as a man.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richh.prod/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUlNvKMfBey0QTyzkd3ieqA