We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Billy Joseph, Jr. a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Billy, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

As an actor I have had multiple opportunities to work on projects related to mental health issues. While attention on this topic has certainly increased over the last few years, there is still a stigma associated with mental health and men’s mental health, in particular. In these roles I have been able to bring attention to this important issue in a way that helps people feel more comfortable opening up about and seek help for their own mental health needs.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

While I have worked a variety of jobs through the years, I have always gravitated towards creative outlets. As a teacher I always enjoyed creating lesson plans. As a museum curator my favorite thing to do was design and build exhibits. My acting and modeling career is no different. I get to be a part of an amazing storytelling process and have been blessed to work with photographers, producers, and directors who understand and appreciate my input into that process.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

It is important for creatives to understand that non-creatives do not think the same as we do and it is equally important for them to have that same understanding. Non-creatives struggle to realize how creatives embody our work. We are fully invested in what is being created in whatever medium and regardless of the financial outcome. When I am on a photoshoot or on set filming then I am not thinking about how much money I might make or even worried about how little I will probably make. I am fully focused on the art and how I can make it as good as I possibly can with my experience, skills, training, and talents.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an actor and model for me is to see the creation completed and be impactful on whatever audience receives it. When someone can see in a photograph the sense of longing or happiness I was trying to convey…when they cry or laugh over a film scene…these are the most powerful and fulfilling moments for me as a creative artist.

Contact Info:

• Website: linktr.ee/billyjosephjr
• Instagram: @billy_joseph_jr
• Facebook: facebook.com/billyjosephjr
• Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/billyjosephjr
• Youtube: youtube.com/@billyjosephjr
• Other: imdb.me/billyjosephjr

Image Credits
Weston Manders, Chrystal Smith, Jordan K. Ellis, Jason Vail and Rafael Antonio Campos