We were lucky to catch up with Corii Diamond recently and have shared our conversation below.

Corii, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

My most impactful art project to date was my 2nd annual solo art show, “The Divine Feminine”, held on July 27th, 2024. This project was deeply significant to me because it was dedicated to honoring and empowering women through visual art and poetry while creating a safe space for them to express themselves. As a masculine-presenting lesbian, it was also a personal statement of my connection to femininity—a side of me often misunderstood or overlooked. I made it a point to collaborate exclusively with women poets and vendors, who performed and showcased their products, amplifying their voices and celebrating their contributions. In my opinion and from the feedback I received from attendees, the show was a powerful moment of unity, creativity, and self-expression.

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

I’m originally from Indiana, but in 2009, I left Indiana to join the military, serving as a Communications Specialist until 2014, with my last duty station being Fort Campbell, KY. While I’ve always been creative, it wasn’t until I took an art appreciation course as an elective during my studies in computer science that I reconnected with my love for art. That class inspired me so deeply that I switched my major to Studio Art, and I’ve been creating ever since.

In 2019, while still in school, I was invited to participate in the Pancakes and Booze Art Show in Atlanta. It was my very first art showcase. Even though I didn’t sell a single piece, the experience was amazing! I fell in love with Atlanta’s vibrant art scene and knew it was the place where my work would thrive. Eventually, I made the bold decision to sell everything I owned, including my home, and move to Atlanta to fully pursue my art career in a city that truly felt like home for my creative vision.

What sets me apart is my commitment to honoring and highlighting people of color through art, activism, literature, and spirituality. Using bold shapes, vibrant colors, and strong lines, I create abstract yet emotionally accurate representations that celebrate our identities and legacies. Each piece is carefully researched, making my art a journey of personal and collective growth.

I’m most proud of having the courage to follow my passion and trust the process, even when it meant changing paths. My work is about more than aesthetics—it’s about sparking conversations around pride, self-reflection, and connection. I strive to raise the planet’s vibration through meaningful and intentional art, creating a space where people feel empowered, inspired, and connected to their heritage and energy. I aim to build a creative community rooted in intentionality and personal growth. I want every exchange—whether through my art or interactions—to leave people feeling seen, uplifted, and energized.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Absolutely. My mission is to challenge societal norms and redefine how beauty—both mine and that of my community—is seen and celebrated. By society’s standards, I carry what some might call ‘three strikes’: I am Black, a woman, and a masculine-presenting lesbian. But I refuse to let those labels dictate my success or limit the reach of my art.

Through my work, I aim to inspire others to follow their passions, just as I have. Whether that means pursuing their dreams or simply finding a way to express themselves authentically and connect with the world, I want my journey to serve as a reminder that success and self-expression aren’t defined by society’s expectations.

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

The rewards of being a creative are endless, but for me, the most profound is the healing and therapeutic nature of creating. Art is how I process my emotions, work through challenges, and find peace within myself. It’s also incredibly fulfilling to know that my art can inspire and uplift others.

As an introvert, art has been my bridge to the world. I realized that creating and sharing my art gave me a voice, a way to express what I couldn’t put into words. Without art, I honestly don’t know if I’d have much to say or how I’d connect with others.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://corii4.wixsite.com/corii-diamond
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coriidiamond/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@coriidiamondcreates
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@coriidiamond

Image Credits

All photos taken by Deseri Rice, photographer and owner of Au Courag Studio + Gallery. Decatur, GA