Daily Inspiration: Meet Jamaal Cannon

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamaal Cannon. 

Hi Jamaal, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
Born and mostly raised in Grand Rapids on the S.E. Side. I’ve been involved in the GR arts community in some way, shape, or form for 20+ years. From performing, DJing, promoting music event to curating and displaying art in local art shows. I am one of the co-founders of the ArtWorkers Union, an art collective of mostly GR natives. I worked in Grand Rapids service industry for over 15 years until my journey brought me to tattooing. I’ve been tattooing full-time for the last two years at Honest To Goodness Tattoo in downtown Grand Rapids. I am also a father of three, so as you may guess, my free time is very scarce. 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The everyday struggles of juggling a job, family as well as creative passions is never an easy thing to pull off. Time management and deciding what projects to invest my time in is always a struggle. Opening doors in west Michigan for local artists and finding unique venues to the ow events or art shows has also been a challenge. It has forced me to think outside of the box as far as venues and showing spaces. 

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My main creative outlet currently is tattooing. I have a passion for American traditional and neo-traditional tattoos. I also am a multifaceted artist that bounces between mediums such as photography, painting, and screen printing. I am most proud of always staying true to my ideas and following through no matter the hurdles or obstacles. 

How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
People can reach out via any social media platform I take part in to collaborate with me or support my work. 

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @cannon_tattoo (tattoo) @trappywarhol (art) @Eastownj (personal)
• Twitter: @eastownj
• SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/cMfZPgJtPzKuJQiw7