We were lucky to catch up with Charlie Unruly recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Charlie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

I don’t believe there’s been a moment when I’ve wanted to return to a regular job. Even in times where the business was slow or when I had to take weeks off for planning. True artistry is a commitment. Commited to yourself and the bigger picture. It’s beyond obligation, more like you’re at the point of no return. I feel like if there is ever a point in your creative journey where you feel reliant on a plan b in the form of a regular job, you may not be fully invested enough to see change. That doesn’t mean you don’t hustle or that you won’t struggle. Make ends meet in any way you can that doesn’t hurt others; but never not use your creativity. There are always moments that test you; a product won’t make a deadline, a person you’re working with may not keep their end of the bargain, or you may face some type of ‘block’ as an artist. These things we may see as set backs are actually opportunities for us to be MORE creative.

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 Charlie I represent Unruly8 and Unruly Society, two artist centered creative companies based in metro Atlanta.
Unruly8 is my first business baby that helped me establish myself as an artist via pop up shops, merchandise and group art shows.

Unruly Society is responsible for last years Juneteenth all black art show Black Mars, with an astounding turnout and amazing fellowship of both curators and art enthusiasts alike. Unruly Society has several art initiatives currently in place but it’s two main goals are:

To conjure a new standard for black art and its representation in our society. This is done by producing elaborate exhibition experiences for artists with a considerable audience of collectors and investors to network and establish relationships with.

To help develop an artists skillet, expose the artist to their community (and beyond) and help the artist earn market rate value or higher for their craft. Showing the business and maintenance side of artistry and creativity in ways that are easy to understand. I believe in working on what you are passionate about and if your passion is in the arts, Unruly Society can help you reach beyond your perceived potential.

Currently, Unruly Society is producing the Agapé Creare art exhibition in December. Ashely Heard (@ashvihaan) and myself will be presenting several new paintings from our latest portfolio.
I like to treat my exhibitions like more of an experience than a standing show. With music, an open bar and immaculate presentation, I intend on raising the bar in the world of artistic portrayal and exposure. By escalating the standard in which we showcase and market black art we increase the not only the demand for, but more importantly the respect of, passionate artists.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is your work being appreciated. I don’t know a better feeling. The entire process of creation can be fulfilling but challenging. All of your effort is focused on the making your best work. You lose sleep, miss outings, ignore important situations and alienate yourself in the spirit of inspiration and stubbornness. It’s an entire energy exchange, especially for painters. So the moment of the reveal or showcase where this new work is shown we look not for understanding specifically but for appreciation. For our efforts, for our vulnerability and our willingness to display both.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Pay them. Fully, without hesitation, without asking for a discount, pay them for their work. All the exposure in the world won’t feed them or pay bills. Because of the utilitarian relationship of money in society we are all dependent on financial security. To bring you the consumer or collector our best work we need to be compensated for it. The culture of ‘exposure for pay’ has poisoned the art industry and robbed artists of significant funding to continue their craft.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.unruly8.com
• Instagram: Charlie.unruly
• Twitter: _CharlieUnruly_

Image Credits
Anthony White @envision.artistry