We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ahmed Childs. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ahmed below.

Ahmed, 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?

Just before the pandemic I was invited to be on a team of artists painting murals in Wilmington, Delaware. Originally we were going to paint in Baltimore but the pandemic interrupted our progress. With a lot of patience we were commissioned to paint two murals in Wilmington, DE. We painted “The World Needs You” on the side of a house and we did a dedicated mural to Kobe Bryant at a community center.

Ahmed, 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?

My name is Ahmed Childs. I’m an artist. Originally, I was an Emcee and poet for many years. I was also a DJ back in college. One art form that has always been with me is visual art. For as long as I can remember I was always drawing. My drawing transformed into a more serious body of work when I began working as a substitute teacher in Baltimore City Public Schools. I started to craft framed pictures for outgoing seniors to hang in their college dorm rooms. This process began in 2006. From there my art evolved into doing custom pieces for various people seeking artwork. I have a number of custom pieces in people’s homes.

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

For me, being a creative is my peace. It’s boundless and limitless. The time I spend creating is also therapeutic. There’s no feeling better than creating something from scratch.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

I was born into a family full of artists. My grandmother hand sewed very intricately designed quilts for years. My mother made wedding dresses and custom garments. My sister made one of a kind leather works. I have a brother who won numerous art contests growing up. This artistry rolled over to my nephews. One is a tattoo artist. Another does graphic arts and a third nephew designs his own clothing apparel. My ultimate goal is to publish a book of my original art.

Contact Info:

• Other: lastbornchild6374@gmail.com

Image Credits

Photos by Tysha Sheppard.