Interview with Chris Clark

What role does the Black artist have in society?

I feel like the role of the Black artist is simply to tell our stories from our point of view. Too many times we allow others to control the narrative. The Black artist is an innovator. Our creativity influences the world. Our role is to tell our truth, authentically, and unapologetically. We are the biggest innovators and the biggest consumers. We consume, but we still don’t own much. We at least need to own our arts and our culture.

How can we grow and empower the Black art community?

We can grow and empower the Black art community by creating more spaces for Black creatives to learn, create, and exhibit their work. We need more studio spaces, galleries, and museums dedicated to our work. We need more opportunities. The more opportunities we have, the better the chances of getting our work out into the world. The more our work is seen, the better for the next generations of Black artists to know that they can, because we did. Representation matters.

How does making art impact other parts of your life?

Art has impacted my life so much and in so many ways. I’m naturally a really reserved person and art has brought me out of my shell. I’m able to talk to new people about myself and my work with ease. Art has also allowed me to travel to places I probably wouldn’t have been able to otherwise. One of the biggest things is I’ve been able to meet and connect with great people from around the world.

Do you feel that your art community challenges existing assumptions?

We know who we are and what we are capable of. Our job is to do the work. People may assume what they wish, but sooner or later they’re going to have to get with the program, or not. We are a force to be reckoned with, we have something to say, and we are here to stay.

How do you cultivate your audience?

I cultivate my audience by being true to who I am. I tell my story and by doing so I’m telling the stories of others. When people see my work, I want them to see their lives, history, experiences, loved ones, and their culture. Social media has been a big help in reaching like minded people. It has helped me find my tribe and my tribe find me.

What’s integral to the work of an artist?

Knowledge. If you want to be in this field or any field for that matter, pick up a book and learn about it. Learn as much as you can. Just never stop learning. Experiment too. Don’t allow yourself to get stuck in a box. There are no limits to your creativity. Have fun and explore.

Success to me is being able to help the next artist accomplish the same things that I have. To me, there are no limits.
-Chris Clark