Meet Joshua White | Local Baton Rouge Artist
What’s a quote that fuels your passion?
“Art is not what you can see, but it is what you can make others see!”
Joshua, your Humble Takeover is your story. Tell the family where you started and how you got to where you are today.
My Humble Takeover began in the forsaken lands of North Baton rouge. As cliché as it may sound, I too am a product of a low-income area, surrounded by avid drug use, and the solicitation of crime and violence from a young age. I thank my parents, who led a Baptist ministry, for ordering my steps onto a better path than the majority of my peers had laid before them. I grew up as an exceptional child and was placed in the gifted program as early as the 1st grade. My advanced academics continued throughout my grade school years and I eventually graduated a top student from McKinley Senior High. My experiences in the gifted arts program provided by the public school system was a blessing for me as I was able to refine and gauge my artistic abilities alongside others while being challenged and exposed to different mediums and forms of visual arts. I always stood out as the top of the program, achieving numerous awards and honors.
This is when I knew the takeover was imminent. I realized my special ability was truly an exceptional gift. From then on I decided to take my art to the next level.
In college I shifted focus. I was rigorously trained in the school of architecture through gaining a bachelor’s degree. I experienced a different form of artistry in building design. I developed an invaluable social, political and professional network as a leading member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. Once graduating, I was able to regain my zeal for creating art, while working professionally to maintain financial stability. My goal is to continue to grow and expand my network. J. White Original Artwork is my brand. This is my Humble Takeover!
Which chapter in your story inspired your current venture?
I am currently an educator. I have always liked to maintain a professional career as the fuel for my personal endeavors. The networking, and interpersonal relationships created by teaching will keep doors open as well as open new doors along the way. My goal is to be self-sufficient, not dependent on any employer. To accomplish this goal, a person must invest in one’s self.
My current ventures include maintaining my own professional art and design business. In other words, I am a visual artist. I specialize in commissioned portraits. My artwork has gained some notoriety and interest across the city of Baton Rouge. I have completed a number of small murals around the city. I leave my mark everywhere I go.
What keeps you Humble through your success and failure in Life?
My confidence keeps me humble.Humility is a trait that was drilled in my spirit alongside my line brothers during my Fraternity’s pledge process. To be humble is to have respect for others. These experiences helped to mold me into a refined, confident and composed individual.
What advice would you offer our family who is writing their own story?
Be confident, and not cocky. Let your works speak for themselves. Confidence is earned. It changes your aura.
Do you have any upcoming events or projects you would like to share?
Upcoming events include my paint part series entitled “#PaintVibes.” The first installment was a huge success. #PaintVibes part 2 will be bigger and better.
Also, I will be releasing a new painting collection entitled “Intimacy,” This will show the deep love between man and woman. This to me, is the deepest inspiration that the world has ever known.
We’d love to hear more stories, please suggest 5 other persons writing their own story and Conquering the World.
Dominic Anderson, personal trainer
Donald Connerly, Party Promoter
Jessica Griffin, Entrepreneur
Willie McCorkle, Entrepreneur, Barber, Contractor.
Calvin Malveaux, Educator, DJ, Cook, Tax Agent.