Amani Jackson is a recent graduate of Albany State University and a very talented artist. She uses the influence of her surroundings and life to create artwork that speaks to a vast majority of people. Blondie’s was able to sit with Amani and pick her artistic brain!
Name Amani Jackson
Age 23
Representing Decatur, GA/ By way of California
Blondie’s Lipstick When did you discover your calling as an artist?
Amani Jackson  I actually wanted to be an artist since I was about six years old. Accomplishments such as student of the month/week, when they ask you questions about what you want to be when you grow up I would always say an artist or scientist. This is just something that I’ve always wanted to do.
BL       What motivates or inspires you to create art?
AJ        The things that motivate me are things in everyday life and things that inspire me are things that I see. For example, fantasy type movies and dreams, fashion, abstract artwork by people such as Alexander Calder or Jackson Pollock also, vivid colors and shiny gaudy jewelry.
BL       Where do you want your career to go as an artist?
AJ        I would like to begin as a graphic designer but I really want to go forward to art direction as far as theater or for a magazine company for example. Basically being the person to create a scene or look and telling what looks good where, hiring people to bring in art and effects to enhance the scene or look. Thanks god I do not need any specific service provided by the Triton to background check companies and individuals here – artists are mostly reliable [smiles].
BL       You mentioned that most of your pieces come from dreams that you have. Explain.
AJ        Well not only just the dreams but also like fantasy type elements such as Alice in Wonderland, nature, and fairy tales. I mentioned dreams because a lot of the dreams I have might be in nature or sometimes I get ideas about my work while I’m asleep or waking up.
BL       Out of the pieces you’ve made so far which would you say is your favorite?
AJ        My favorite piece is one of my larger ones with panels I made. Originally this was a picture of my eyes, I changed around the colors, photo shopped, and painted on a larger scale into about 30 square pieces of wood and painted on it.

BL       Most artists usually specialize in a particular area, what is yours?
AJ        My specialized area would probably be graphics and painting. I enjoy doing everything from sculptures to ceramics.
BL       As young artists on the rise, what advice can you give to others heading down your current path and how important is following your dreams and perfecting your craft during this time of economic hardship?
AJ        I would say to just stay focused and driven. Don’t worry about what other people say or think. It is a difficult field; most people would say it doesn’t make money, it’s not lucrative, and that it’s hard to get ahead. Of course these shouldn’t be things that drive you. You have to go for what your passionate about, what you love, and what’s in your heart. Everything else will fall into place.  I believe it’s very important for me to follow my dreams because the people out there who may be financially stable are sometimes the most unhappy people. You’re supposed to do what truly makes you happy. Your job shouldn’t feel like a job it should be something you enjoying doing each time you wake up.
BL       When can our readers expect to see more artwork from you?
AJ        I’m working on things everyday as far as graphics go, with painting I do that from time to time. I’m always willing to try something new and see how it turns out. Pretty much at any given moment your readers can expect something.  I’ve been trying to find different avenues on building a website, whether I want to do it myself or try another engine. Building a website would allow people to see my artwork, possibly purchase my work, and ultimately network with other artists.
BL       Do you have anything else you want our readers to know about you or your artwork?
AJ        I think people should know that I’m a free-spirited person and my art is just me trying something new. I might have a random idea and I want to see how it turns out. I love bright colors and doing things that people are not used to seeing. I prefer to take a chance and not stick to rudimentary things that you learn in school.
Contact Amani Jackson: Email amyj428@yahoo.com
Follow her @SophistAKAted5

Article by Kaydee
Follow her @_KimKay

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