Meet ROD | Artist

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

Hi ROD, why did you pursue a creative career?
I’ve been an artist my whole life and was very active as a youth. After College life got in the way and I stopped creating art for many years. I switched gears and I became a professional artist in 2016 after 15 years of working a job. I was at a low point in my life. I’d been working a career that reached its peak and I was depressed. I struggled with anxiety and outside of the mental health finally my physical body started to fail me. I lost my way completely. One day while at the beach I had an epiphany. I decided to create Art to reflect my feelings. I wanted to live an abundant life one that would inspire and motivate! My purpose now is to spread positivity through creativity one painting at a time. I’m fortunate that through out my journey I’ve been able to successfully accomplish that.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When I first began my Art I was all over the place. Just like my emotions at the time. I had no direction. I was creating random things although fun I felt I had a bigger purpose. It wasn’t easy finding a style that was unique. It had to come organically. One day I created a person that looked like me unintentionally and it made me smile. So I decided to paint pictures of people who looked like my culture and maybe it will make them smile too. I began to research my family lineage and that of my cultural community. What I found led me to create my style of art. I call it “Afro-Urban Indigenous Art”. I create modern depictions of indigenous cultures from around the world. I take Influence from tribal indigenous groups and fuse them with the modern day look of everyday people. Affectionately coined “Black Indians” they are meant to invoke pride and relatability in the history of our ancestors.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My life is centered around the Art community. If I’m not on public display then I’m exhibiting my work at venues, private events, parties and galleries. I visit the beach once a week to connect with the ocean so we would definitely visit my favorite spots along the water. I have been fortunate to have an impact in my community. I frequently perform live paintings displays in the City on a vibrant strip well known for its tourism, shopping and night life activities. My art has a influential impact on the community so we would spend the bulk of our time catering to the artist demographic.

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?
Along the way I’ve had many supporters. Co workers, friends old and new…some family members but the bulk of my work has found a home with people I just met. I appreciate all who support ROD ART. Every time some one appreciates my art it reminds me of my purpose.

Instagram: @Rebelordieart

Other: Email trinitycjnoah@gmail.com