JHALIN KNOWLES
In the vast realm of photography, every artist has a unique story to tell through their lens. Jhalin shares his personal experiences, motivations, and challenges in the pursuit of his passion. His journey is not only one of self-expression but also a quest for representation and creativity in an industry that can sometimes be discouraging. One of the driving forces behind Jhalin's decision to pursue photography was the desire to see more people who looked like him in the spotlight. Photography has the power to capture diverse narratives and showcase underrepresented voices. By actively participating in the field, Jhalin aims to contribute to a more inclusive representation within the industry, showcasing the beauty and diversity of different cultures and backgrounds.
Despite his deep-rooted commitment, Jhalin admits to feeling discouraged at times. In the age of social media, it is all too easy to fall into the trap of comparing one's artistic journey to others. The constant comparison can hinder creativity and stifle the originality that makes each artist unique. Jhalin's candid admission resonates with many creatives who have faced similar struggles, reminding us that it is crucial to focus on our own artistic growth rather than seeking validation solely through external measures.
For Jhalin, his family plays a significant role in his work. Jhalin's earliest works that gained recognition centered around his younger siblings. One of these images even made its way onto a billboard in downtown Atlanta, where it will be displayed for an impressive ten-year duration. This achievement serves as a testament to the power of personal connections and the impact they can have on an artist's creative journey.
Jhalin expresses his desire to film, direct, and photograph a personal endeavor. This aspiration reflects on his ambition to explore various artistic mediums and create a cohesive narrative that encompasses his vision. By embracing multiple disciplines, Jhalin aims to expand his creative horizons and deliver a more immersive experience to his audience.
While Jhalin doesn't have a specific favorite project they have worked on thus far, they recently set a goal to undertake projects that hold personal meaning and intention. This shift in approach will allow him to align his artistic expression with his values, ensuring that each endeavor is a genuine reflection of his creativity and artistic voice. Jhalin's commitment to intentional and meaningful projects highlights the importance of staying true to oneself and creating art that resonates deeply.
Beyond the realm of photography, Jhalin draws inspiration from his other interests, such as music and fashion. Music, in particular, influences his composition and evokes certain emotions within the viewer. Fashion plays a significant role as well, as Jhalin personally styles his models for personal projects, understanding how clothing and colors can contribute to a cohesive and visually appealing image. These multidimensional influences enrich his work, demonstrating the interconnectedness of various art forms.
Remarkably, Jhalin is entirely self-taught. He emphasizes that while a formal education can offer benefits, it is not a prerequisite for becoming a successful photographer. “College isn’t necessary for everyone. I attended school for one quarter and couldn’t afford it. Being an artist helped because most artists don’t need a formal education. Art comes from within and how your creative mind processes things. There are definitely benefits of gaining a formal education but I don’t think they are crucial to being a photographer.”
If one were to summarize Jhalin's artwork in a few words, it would be a celebration of black life, family, and love. Through his photography, Jhaylin captures the essence of these themes, highlighting the beauty, strength, and unity within these narratives. His images serve as a testament to the power of representation and the impact that genuine storytelling can have on individuals and communities.
Jhalin Knowles is photographer driven by a quest for representation, fueled by personal experiences and motivated by the desire to create meaningful art. His journey inspires aspiring photographers and artists alike, reminding us that creativity knows no boundaries, and the power of storytelling can change perceptions and uplift underrepresented voices.
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