DREI FRAGEN with Jamal Robinson

Artist Jamal Robinson shares his artistic wisdom.

Each Wednesday I ask a different artist the same three questions.

This week’s artist is

Jamal Robinson

, who consistently inspires me with his beautiful presentation of words and shapes.

1. What first sparked your interest in creating art?

At 31 years old I experienced heartbreak for the first time. As a result, I was left grieving and broken open. Thankfully, this painful period in my life gave me a moment to reflect on who I was and who I wanted to be.  After about six months, I realized one thing I was afraid to call myself as an artist. So, I decided to anoint myself with the title as an act of bravery. Then, for the next year, I painted 30 pieces after having not painted since elementary school. Two years later I decided to take my private poetry practice public as a continuation of my creative journey, which is when I started Found Notes.

2. What are your regrets?

Any regrets I have as an artist and poet stem from moments where I let my insecurities determine my actions.  These moments have been infrequent in my young public art practice, though feelings of fear are not. But when they do occur, I’ve learned that the regret that comes from them is a great motivator for making brave choices in the future.

3. What wisdom would you offer someone beginning their art career, or exploring art for the first time at any stage in life?

Limitations can fuel your creativity. Can’t draw well, do abstract pieces. Don’t have money for canvas, paint on whatever surface you do have. Not into painting, create a collage using snippets from the works of others.  Art can be anything you want it to be. So if you want to make art, do it!

Art by Jamal Robinson.