Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Reese Jones. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Reese, appreciate you joining us today. Do you wish you had started sooner?

It was year 2015 when it all started with a facebook message from a high school friend who was looking for “models” for a photoshoot. I exuberantly accepted the offer to reconnect with an old friend and have some fun while doing it. Fast forward to posting my favorite photo from the shoot to all of my socials, and BOOM I had received so much love, motivation and support to actually take modeling seriously. I truly didn’t know what that meant back then, but the year following I took another chance on myself and volunteered to be apart of a photoshoot that was specifically casting darker complexion Black women. I was selected as one of the few models, I met some gorgeous, kind and talented women while there. These experiences have been the foundation and alignment toward all of the opportunities I have had thus far.

As a young woman who was challenged with insecurities of the standards of beauty, the belief that my physical beauty was the exact reflection of my inner beauty was in question. Growing up I heard less compliments about how I looked and more about what I needed to do to look “better” or “healthier” or “pretty”. So I sought out the courageous act to place myself in front of the camera lens. Forcing myself to see all that was [within] me. All that those around expressed as a “beautiful” person. Surely they meant inside AND out, right?! Today, I see that woman. That beautiful, courageous, powerful woman.

You ask, “if I could go back in time do I wish I would’ve started my creative career sooner or later?’ The short answer is, I am exactly where I belong. Sometimes, it takes questioning your value or worth to catapult you into the realms of belief that you are exactly who you say you are. You are deserving. You are worthy. You are valuable. In the back of my mind, I’ve had some thought that maybe if I had started sooner I could possibly be a bit farther in my creative career but overall, from beginning to present day there is nothing I regret from my journey so far.

Reese, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am Reese, some refer to me as “Reese Cup” (like the candy) or “Goddess”. I am a multifaceted artist in Baltimore who has worked in media, performance and visual arts as model, facilitator, coordinator and administration. I use my social media platforms for blogging about mental health, spiritual and emotional wellness. I share some of my most vulnerable life experiences publicly to remind others that we are all existing, living and navigating this thing called “life”. We are all doing it to the best of our ability. Within these avenues, I have been awarded opportunities of collaboration with local designers (modeling clothing pieces and jewelry), entrepreneurs, podcasts, hosting, guest speaking, and much more.

I am most proud of the relationships and connections that I have made over the years. One thing I would love to be remembered by/for is creating the safe and vulnerable space for others to share their own stories. Be confident in knowing that you have a voice and you are necessary in this world. Know that as you journey through life you are not alone and someone else absolutely needs to hear (or see) your story!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative often lies in the ability to express yourself freely and share your unique perspective with the world. It’s the joy of bringing ideas to life, whether through visual art, writing, music, or other forms. Many artists find fulfillment in the emotional connection their work creates with others, as well as the process of constantly learning, growing, and experimenting with new techniques. There’s also the satisfaction of contributing something meaningful to the world.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Supporting artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem requires a multi-faceted approach that involves financial, social, and institutional backing. Some key ways society can contribute:

Funding and Grants: Increased access to public and private funding, grants, and scholarships ensures that artists can focus on their work without the constant burden of financial insecurity.

Affordable Spaces: Providing affordable studio spaces, co-working spaces, or living arrangements where artists can work and collaborate can make a significant difference. Cities should create incentives for landlords and developers to maintain affordable housing and working spaces for creatives.

Recognition and Exposure: Promoting the visibility of local and global artists through galleries, public art programs, exhibitions, and digital platforms can give them a larger audience. Initiatives that encourage art in public spaces is critical.

Arts Education and Programs: Early exposure to the arts through school curriculums and after-school programs can inspire the next generation of creatives. Offering workshops, mentorships, scholarships and continued professional development helps artists refine their skills and stay both encouraged and innovative.

Fair Pay and Ethical Practices: Society can ensure artists are fairly compensated for their work by valuing creative labor. Establishing fair wage standards for freelance work, commissions, and performances helps artists sustain their careers long-term.

Community Support: Creating strong local art communities and networks where artists collaborate, share resources, and mentor one another fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity. Community-driven initiatives can nurture artists and amplify their voices.

Policy Support: Governments can create policies that protect creative work, provide tax breaks for creative enterprises, and incentivize businesses to support the arts. Intellectual property rights and protections ensure that artists retain ownership and control over their work.

By recognizing the importance of creativity and providing the necessary support systems, society can foster a more vibrant, diverse, and sustainable creative ecosystem

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @reesecuppp
• Twitter: @reesecuppppp

Image Credits

Morant Sean: @m3productions, Joshua Lee: @mr_jaynathan, Shae McCoy @shae.mccoy.photos, Kham Owens: @khamdoart