Meet Traveling Troy: Artist & Creative

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

Hi Traveling, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
While I’ve never had a problem working for anyone else, It naturally happened for me. After leaving my more corporate gig, I hit the ground running, and never looked back. Initially, my thought process was to pay bills, but I developed a passion for art again being directly involved with clients and people in need of creative services. I’ve always been a person wanting to help others reach their goals. So developing the skills to help them do so my business naturally evolved for me. So if I had to say what my thought process was, I’d say more than anything wanting to be helpful to others.

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.
As an artist/creative, I want to see other people win. I chose the path of art without knowing what was ahead, and I’m thankful I did. Professionally it became difficult when I realized not all people bringing ideas to you respect what you do, whether it’s your employer or a personal client. Overcoming this, though, lead to my business flourishing. Communication and comprehension were valuable assets I found useful throughout this journey. Where I am today, I’ve gained relationships that extend to various parts of the world. Where I started — I didn’t even know what an “Apple” product was. I had never heard of a “Graphic Designer” or never imagined being able to record music the way I do now. I hate reading books, but I’ve written one and working on two more currently. Your story is still in motion regardless of what you’re up against or thinking of yourself.

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.
Okay smooth, so most definitely our mornings will be filled with some dope early am spots: Arden’s Garden, Silver Skillet, Playa Bowls, West Egg Cafe, Cafe Social House, Some mid-day activities would include: A hike near SweetWater Creek(Photoshoot), Bikes on the Beltline, Botanical Gardens(Photoshoot), Top Golf, Andretti’s Raceway, Local Green Atlanta Some of my people we’d have to stop and see: Hobo Ink(Tattoo Artist/Creative) Myke Stallone (Tattoo Artist/Creative/Producer) Amber The Braiding Barber (Barber/Stylist) ChefWood (Professional Chef) Niqulus Maximus ( Producer), Brandon Bell(Producer), Knottz ( Engineer/Recording Studio Owner) Some evening spots I’d check out: Baltimore Crab & Seafood, Tredericks, Tacos & Tequila, Hook Line & Schooner, Slim & Huskies, I’m more of a creative than anything, so anywhere in the Atlanta area can spark inspiration or interest in my opinion. I see it in fashion, culture, and community all around the city. Atlanta is home to several creatives from all over the world, so just being amonst that is most rewarding in my opinion. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The creator for sure. My peers, who have constantly remained tapped in with my creativity. Offering their brands as an opportunity for me to grow as a creative. My sons for realigning me with my work ethic and focus. My mother and father for access to today. A book that really helped me get back on track: Mindfulness: Be mindful. Live in the Moment. by Gill Hasson

Website: www.graymaze.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-hampton-25428583/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blake.hampton.399041/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCT7TaABck1gXRzO1oFDurdg

Other: www.itsa2d.com

Image Credits
Kenda Simons with Simons West Photography