We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful LEON ORANGE. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with LEON below.
LEON, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
In 2013, I began organizing Poetry Open Mic nights in Orlando with the conviction that young voices needed a platform. I recognized that the perspectives and experiences of these young people were often overlooked in mainstream channels like radio, church, and school. My aim was to create a space where their voices could be amplified and their stories, often unspoken in traditional media, could be shared and appreciated. This endeavor was driven by the desire to provide an outlet for creative expression and to foster a community where diverse thoughts and experiences could be heard and valued.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Originally from Milwaukee, WI, I relocated to Orlando in 2008 with a dream to blend my rapping, photography, and graphic design talents into one unique career path. A common saying describes someone as a jack of all trades, master of none. However, it wasn’t until later that I embraced the less-known continuation of that phrase, ‘yet often better than a master of one.’ I launched a poetry and hip-hop open mic event with this philosophy in 2013. As we approach the transition from 2023 to 2024, this event has become the premier open mic venue in Orlando, attracting talent from various cities and establishing itself as a community cornerstone. In addition to organizing these events, my photography, videography, and digital marketing skills play a crucial role. I’m dedicated to ensuring that our visual presentations and promotional materials are always of the highest quality, reflecting our open mic’s vibrant and dynamic nature.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My mission is to persist as a vital outlet for the creative community in Orlando. I believe that providing a space for artists to perform live in front of enthusiastic and engaging audiences is not just about entertainment; it’s a powerful way to foster positive mental health. The act of expressing oneself artistically in a supportive environment can be incredibly therapeutic and empowering for both the performers and the audience. As we move forward, our goal is to continue nurturing this platform where creativity and emotional well-being intersect.
This mission goes beyond just hosting events; it’s about building a community where artists feel valued and heard. By offering opportunities for poets, musicians, and other artists to showcase their talents, we’re not only celebrating their artistry but also acknowledging their individual stories and emotions. It’s a place where the diverse voices of Orlando can come together, share their experiences, and find solace in the communal experience of art.
In addition to hosting open mics and other events, we aim to expand our support for the local creative community. This includes workshops, collaborations with other artistic organizations, and creating more opportunities for artists to develop and showcase their talents. By integrating my skills in photography, videography, and digital marketing, we also aim to amplify the reach of these artists, giving them a platform that extends beyond the local scene.
Ultimately, our mission is to make a lasting impact on the mental well-being of our community through the power of creative expression, fostering a space where everyone feels free to express themselves and find connection and healing through art.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative lies in my ability to cultivate a community through artistic expression. My journey from Milwaukee to Orlando, where I’ve merged my passions for rapping, photography, and graphic design, highlights my commitment not only to my own artistic development but also to creating a platform for others.
I’ve established a space where artists, especially poets and hip-hop artists, can express their voices and stories that might be overlooked in mainstream channels. This means a lot to me because empowering others through artistic expression is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work. Seeing these artists perform live, observing their growth, and knowing that I’ve contributed to providing them with that opportunity is incredibly gratifying.
Moreover, I deeply believe in the therapeutic and empowering nature of creative expression, particularly in its role in promoting positive mental health. My open mic nights are more than just entertainment; they are gatherings that encourage healing, understanding, and community support.
Lastly, my work in integrating my skills in photography, videography, and digital marketing to promote these events is also highly rewarding. It’s satisfying to see the community engage with and appreciate these artistic expressions, and knowing that I’ve played a part in bringing that to life enhances my sense of fulfillment in my creative endeavors.
Contact Info:
- Website: orangeismedia.com
- Instagram: @orlandocreativenetwork
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/orangeismedia2/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/orangeismedia/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/orangeismedia
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@weteachaidesigns