We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Malik Bridges. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Malik below.
Malik, appreciate you joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
Life is risky, being human is risky, being black is risky, now add being an artist on top. Back in 2016 I had an interview in Binghamton, NY Whitehall is a 2 hour drive from where I was stationed in Middletown, NY. At the time I owned a red drop top mustang so of course i drove over. Mind you I had $20 bucks in my pocket for gas and a meal, but that wasn’t going to stop me. So I gassed up and left. After my interview I realized I had no money left over. But I did bring some prints of paintings that I had recently made. So I went downtown to a busy street and walked around and sold prints to a few people. It started off slow with a few no’s but once I got my first yes it gave me the courage to push through. I made enough money to gas up and grab a drink and a meal. Actually making more than I came down with. A beautiful experience.
Malik, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
As long as I can remember I was into art. Creative as a kid playing in the upstate NY woods fighting imaginary enemies pretending I was my favorite video game or cartoon character on an action adventure. Not until leaving collage in 2015 did I want to take being an artist to the next level. I’m a painter, Designer, Musician. I’m solving the “taste” problem. Bringing back style over name band fashions Today there isnt a lot of individuality in self expression and creativity. I strive to be the example of creatives and everyday people to look within for inspiration. Being the first to jump sets me apart. Not being afraid to be me. I’m most proud of my self discovery . My faith In God and consistency. I do t believe I’m any better at what I do then the next person I just haven’t given up on my dreams. I want people to know that I won’t give up on my goals. I want them To know I’m here for a long
Time and a good time. I want people to know to have fun in life and don’t be compromising in the things you want because I won’t. I was that average shy kid in school that found myself.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Seeing people lite up when they see me working or relate to a piece they connect with. Being the voice or eyes for people that don’t have one. Telling a story for the individuals that want more, seeking more but don’t know how and where to go. I take pride in being someone people can baste they life, and a foundation for being yourself.
Alright – so here’s a fun one. What do you think about NFTs?
Until true artists step into that realm it won’t go anywhere. What I seen isn’t strong enough to sustain weight and value.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.theblacklibraryny.com/artists-in-residence/malik-bridges
- Instagram: @sifu9000
- Facebook: Malik Tigercraneboxing Bridges
- Twitter: @tiger_crane_
- Youtube: @tctv845