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

Eli, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I have worked on thus far is the movie “Kasi” which will soon be streaming on Tubi. It was meaningful to me because we filmed in my home town, Houston, Tx and my family was able to attend the premiere.

My family is my greatest support system. I am truly blessed to have such amazing parents. Growing up they always made sure I was involved in a variety of activities so I could find my true passion. They helped me to develop the discipline, organization, and provided the encouragement I needed to become a great actress. Getting to share my passion and such a monumental moment in my career with my biggest supporters was everything!

I encourage all emerging artists to surround themselves with good company, build a community, and support each other. Who we surround ourselves with while we are on our journey matters. Identify the people that show up for you.

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?

My name is Eli. I grew up in Houston, TX before I moved to New Orleans, LA and began my journey in television & film. One day they were filming on campus and I asked how to get involved. My curiosity in that moment sparked a new chapter in my life, I was on set for the first time in the matter of a week… then I kept finding a way back to set, every week after that, however I could. I wanted to be there.

I was supposed to be there. I started off as a background actress. One of the first TV shows I worked on was Interview With a Vampire, now streaming on AMC+. I am on Episode 1 as a prostitute. From there I moved into stand in work before I started booking speaking roles.

I knew from these experiences that I wanted to become a great actress. So I began working for it. I figured out what did and did not work for me. I started training and building up my list of credits. One of the most important things I did was write down a list of questions and ask somebody. Sometimes reaching out to people can be intermediating but do not be afraid to ask for help. Yvonne Senat Jones from the Disney+ series “Crossover” is an amazing actress who helped me. She has an instagram page @YvonnePraysForActors that I encourage all actors to follow.

Independent films and student thesis projects are a great way to build credits for beginning actors. One of my first supporting roles was on the independent feature film “Kasi” directed by Lakisha Lemons shot in my hometown Houston, Tx. It will be streaming on Tubi.

A word of advice I have that has contributed to my success so far is to be organized and prepared. I keep all of my acting materials; reel, resume, auditions, monologues, headshots etc. in a Dropbox folder ready to go.

A few of the other things that are aiding me in my journey is my systems over goals mentality, and my faith in God. Some of the best advice I have received was from actor Derek Luke who told me “don’t bring anything, I (God) have everything”.

This year I have a project coming out. Follow me on social media to stay up to date on my tv & film journey @elithecreative

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

The best way for society to support artists is to show up for your local artists. One of the things I love about New Orleans, LA is that there is so much art to love and so many emerging artists to get to know. There is always an opportunity to show up for somebody. I love going to fashion shows, comedy shows, open mics, etc. Speak life into the artist in your city, buy their art, watch their films. Share their work on social media.

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

For me the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is getting to share a story with the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13351414/?ref_=tt_cl_i_3
• Instagram: @EliTheCreative

Image Credits
@QShotU