Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine Graham.
Hi Jasmine, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
My journey is filled with wonder, determination, and discovery. Growing up, I was obsessed with all things Art, photography, writing, painting, drawing, clay, theatre, acting, and anything that involved creativity and sharing a message. But, as a young black woman in the making, Art isn’t a career that is pushed on someone like me. It wasn’t until I was taking random college classes that I discovered Broadcast Journalism. I figured that was the closest I could get to an Arts degree. Broadcast Journalism combined writing, photography, videography, being in front and behind the camera, and also giving the people the information they need to be free.
After I graduated at the end of 2017, I knew that the corporate structure was NO PLACE for me. So, I freelanced and hustled until I let go of the imaginary expectations I had of myself and began living my truth as an artist.
In 2019 my friend invited me to show in her art showcase, and I was shocked. She gave me no direction she just wanted me to explore my artistry. After that art show, I was hooked, and since then, I have been a part of more group art shows, self-published two books, and self-produced two solo art shows. I have won art fellowships and sponsorships. I continue to emerge myself deeper into the world of Art through practice, workshops, books, griots, and youtube university.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The world of Artistry, FREELANCE artistry at that, is not for the faint of heart. There have been times when I didn’t know where my next source of income was coming from. There have been and will be times again where I am waiting 15…20..30..60 days for an invoice to be paid from a client.
Balancing creating artwork and working to make $$ so I can continue to create can be soul-sucking at times, but I have to remember the bigger picture. I know that one day my art and my art alone will support the lifestyle I see for myself.
As long as I continue to work hard and put myself and my artwork out to the world, God will take care of the rest.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As an artist, I am influenced by black people, colors, nature, and natural light. I blend the two together to express impactful narratives through photography, writing, painting, and mixed media. I have a unique ability to convey emotion through art in a way that is universal.
You will most likely find nature or the city landscape in my work. I use depth of field, negative space, and contrast to create movement in my pieces. I want the color to pop off the photo and feel like you can touch, smell, and taste the hues.
My goal as an artist is to share the beautiful complexity of the underrepresented through my work and go down in history as a well-rounded influential artist who told the story of the times and evoked change and conversation while inspiring others to do the same.
What matters most to you?
What matters to me the most is spreading healthy LOVE! When someone feels loved, they feel invincible, like they can do anything. That feeling is contagious.
Pricing:
- Light Shoot – $75 30 minutes. One location. One look. 5 edited photos.
- Standard Shoot – $150 1 hour. One location. Three looks. 10 edited photos.
- Pro Shoot – $250 2 hours. Two locations. Five looks. 20 edited photos.
- Family Photoshoots – $300 2 hours. Two locations. Three looks. 15 edited photos. Group & Solo shots included.
- Event Photography starts at $200 an hour.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.stillstostory.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_jasminegraham/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jasmine.domonique
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/__jgraham
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/stillstostory/
Image Credits
Redmond’s Photography
