This week's episode reminds us why authenticity is essential to artistic vision. Martine sits down with Adrian Octavius Walker, a mixed-media artist and photographer whose journey from St. Louis to the Smithsonian will inspire you to think differently about your creative path.

A note from the content team: In this episode, we discuss grief and the loss of a parent.

Episode Highlights

• Collaboration and networking are essential in the creative industry.

• Taking care of oneself physically and mentally is crucial for success.

• Balancing work and family requires prioritization and setting boundaries.

• Music can be a powerful source of inspiration and motivation for artists.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Adrian Octavius Walker

03:02 Childhood and Early Influences

05:56 Navigating Grief and Loss

09:13 The Role of Photography in Healing

12:04 Transitioning to College and Career

14:57 The Journey of a Mixed Media Artist

17:46 Touring with Lupe Fiasco

21:09 Becoming a Photo Editor and Beyond

24:56 The Journey Begins: From Editing App to Career

29:20 Building a Community: The Power of Connections

34:37 Artistic Growth: Discovering My Voice

39:41 Collaboration and Self-Care: Balancing Life and Art

46:27 Advice to My Younger Self: Financial Wisdom and Mental Health

48:50 The Role of Music: A Creative Lifeline

• QUOTABLE GEMS: "I wouldn't necessarily say I'm giving up anything. What I am doing is giving in and giving grace to life itself." - Adrian Walker

• CREATOR'S TOOLKIT: Adrian shares his secret weapon for staying creative and centered: music! Stay tuned for his curated playlist dropping soon.

• REAL TALK MOMENT: When Adrian talks about scheduling his long runs before family time [42:30], he drops some serious wisdom about how to show up for your art AND your family. This conversation is a must-listen for any creator trying to balance it all.

• MARTINE'S TAKEAWAY: "What struck me most about Adrian's journey is how he's turned every experience – even the painful ones – into fuel for his artistic vision. His work reminds us that there's beauty everywhere, even in unexpected places."

• JOIN THE CONVERSATION: What resonated most with you from Adrian's story? Share your thoughts with us using #ThisIsHowWeCreate

• #Photography #ArtistJourney #CreativeLife #MixedMediaArt #ThisIsHowWeCreate

• PS: Like what you heard? Share this episode with a fellow creator who needs to hear it! 🎨✨

Get to know Adrian Octavius Walker

Website: Adrian Octavius Walker

Follow on Instagram: Adrian

Support the Show

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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.

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Tags

#Photography #MixedMediaArt #BlackCreativity #Storytelling #ArtisticJourney #CreativeEntrepreneur #VSCO #WorkLifeBalance #MusicInspiration #Collaboration #FreelanceLife #ArtistInterview #BlackArtists #VisualStorytelling #CreativeProcess