The Art Activator, 39

 Art Teacher at Northeast High School, Creator of Parker Cloud

Tell us about your vocation. Why did you choose it? 

I didn’t choose; I was chosen to fulfill both. As an artist who is both social and creative, I live to inspire. The purpose of my work is to bring our youth together with the elders, motivate the people and boost the viewers imagination. As a teacher I focus on social emotional learning in art curriculums that align with educational standards, while incorporating art activities that engage scholars and make them think creatively. 

Tell us about your activities in the community, especially what you’re most excited about.

I don’t have just one answer — so I’ll tell you what I’ve done. It’s going to sound like I’m bragging, but this is my truth. I’ve conducted my own art shows, art camps with help from local donations and the Macon Violence Prevention program. Parker Cloud and Friendz art battles between local schools that foster unity and offer high school students a chance to explore their artistic talents and contribute to their cultural fabric. I have beautified neighborhoods, school classrooms, and hallways with love and color.

All these are works I’m most proud of because my scholars gain opportunities for creative expression, emotional exploration, and skill development. No art teacher or artist ever did that for me when I was a child.

As you look to the future, what are your professional and personal goals?

I want to beautify schools, host more art battles, and share my social emotional art curriculums around the state of Georgia, the world. I see collaboration deals with my signature characters Parker Cloud and Billow. Every product I’ve purchased or made a part of my life, they must make me a part of their brand and make every purchase benefit education.

I’m committed to promoting creativity in my scholars and showcasing their talents in hallways to promote school pride. I am committed to making things better in my community, the best I can, through art because it’s my calling. My parents live here and their parents live here. My scholars will grow up and have kids here. For me, it’s about legacy.

How do you think Macon is aligning to become a more inclusive place? How has that shaped your values and actions?

Macon is becoming inclusive through engagement programs, minority-owned businesses, and enhancing public spaces. As an artist and art educator, it’s allowed me to inspire change and build connections with my scholars and their families.

What is your vision for Macon?

We must learn, unlearn, and relearn. We must place our egos aside and start with ourselves! Becoming the best versions of ourselves assures a better community for our children. James Baldwin once said love isn’t a popular movement. That stuck with me. We gotta make love cool. We have to properly communicate in times of disagreements so our children can model these successful behaviors and we stop losing our youth. We have to notice everybody. We’re all down here together.

How do you reach out to encourage more good doing?

Acknowledgment. We have to be more responsible for each other. Unfortunately, we live in a selfish world, but our thoughts and actions can help create a better one. Check on your people. Believe it or not, you’re not the only one with problems. Stop assuming. Ask questions. Create moments. Notice your children. Speak life into your children and their friends. Don’t get so caught up with work or your own pain to the point you ignore everyone else’s. Sometimes that blessing you’re searching for or praying about is hidden within you.

Our youth are angry and hurting. Our elderly are scared and not respected. We’re all responsible for each other. We must all treat each other as family when greeting each other and living near each other.

Let the youth speak. Let the elders take on new ideas. May we all walk together. Build and rebuild new ways and destroy bad habits. Parents, collaborate with your children’s teachers. Support your children’s schools. Support your spouse and house. The kids are watching.

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Becoming an educator at my alma mater is one of my greatest achievements in my life. Walking through the doors reminds me of my high school years. It affords me the opportunity to give back to the community in which I grew up. As an art educator, I have the ability to create and restore confidence. I make emotional deposits into their creative skillset every day.