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

Nathaniel, 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?

‘Ode To Black Women.’ my visual poetry film/short documentary was inspired by a deep desire to celebrate and honour the strength, resilience, and beauty of black women. As a black queer poet and filmmaker, I wanted to create a project that not only reflected my own experiences with black women but also amplified the voices of black women who have often been marginalised and overlooked in society.

The creative process behind ‘Ode To Black Women.’ was a deeply personal journey. It began with a poem of the same name that I had written, which served as the foundation for the film. From there, I meticulously crafted a visual narrative that captured the essence of the poem, weaving together five compelling stories that reflected the diverse experiences of black women. Every aspect of the project, from directing and co-editing to creating the music and mixing the sound, was infused with passion and dedication to authentically represent the voices within the black community.

‘Ode To Black Women.’ was a profoundly meaningful project for me to create on multiple levels. As a poet and filmmaker, it allowed me to merge my artistic passions and talents to shed light on an important social issue.

I envision ‘Ode To Black Women.’ making a significant impact by challenging societal norms and perceptions surrounding black women. By sharing their stories in a raw and authentic way, I hope to inspire empathy, understanding, and appreciation for the diverse experiences of black women. Additionally, I hope that ‘Ode To Black Women.’ sparks important conversations about representation, equality, and social justice, ultimately contributing to positive change within our communities and society as a whole.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Nathaniel Lloyd Richards, and I’m the only son among five siblings, born to Caribbean immigrant parents—a Jamaican father and a mother from the tiny country of St Kitts and Nevis. Growing up in Manchester, amidst a kaleidoscope of cultures, I found my inspiration in the rich tapestry of my Caribbean heritage.

My grandmother, with her enduring Jamaican accent, remains a pillar of strength and pride in my life. Her words of encouragement, uttered after I interviewed her for my visual poetry/short documentary film, “You’re doing a really good ting Nay-tan,” still echo in my mind. They embody the resilience and determination that have shaped my artistic journey.

In our household, Caribbean culture permeated everything—from the tantalising aromas of home-cooked meals to the rhythmic beats of reggae, dancehall, and Soca. My parents, who faced adversity and racism in the UK, instilled in me a sense of perseverance and resilience. Their struggles and triumphs have become integral to my narrative, enriching my art with depth and authenticity.

Despite suggestions to specialise in one talent, I’ve embraced my multifaceted identity as a poet, singer/songwriter, music producer, director, and curator. Rejecting the notion of limiting myself to a single artistic domain, I’ve fused my talents to create a holistic approach to creativity.

My upcoming poetry collection ‘Lighthouse’ published by Written Off Publishing is an emotional journey of grief, love, dealing with anxiety and PTSD, social issues but also of hope. It will be followed by the release of my visual poetry film/short documentary ‘Ode To Black Women.’ Based on my poem of the same name.

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

The driving mission behind my creative journey is centred on amplifying and empowering black creative voices. Representation matters deeply to me, and I am committed to creating art that authentically reflects the diverse experiences and perspectives within the black community. However, beyond representation, I believe ownership is vital. It’s not just about being seen and heard but also about having agency and control over our narratives and spaces. My ultimate goal is to contribute to a future where black artists not only have their voices heard and seen but also have ownership of the art spaces where their stories are told, ensuring that our narratives are not only represented but also celebrated and respected on our own terms.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

Throughout my creative journey, I’ve encountered some of my toughest lessons, ones that have reshaped my understanding of audience and access in the creative industry. One of the most striking realisations has been that often, our audience extends far beyond our immediate circles. While I’m incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of my core group of supporters, it’s been eye-opening to acknowledge that many who champion my creative endeavours are strangers, individuals who connect with my work on a deeper level.

Equally challenging has been recognising that gatekeepers in the creative industry can look like me. Confronting these realities has been both humbling and empowering, pushing me to navigate the landscape with resilience, determination, and a renewed commitment to amplifying diverse voices and breaking down barriers within the industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://nathaniellloydrichards.co.uk/
• Instagram: naeuk
• Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@OFFICIALNATHANIELLLOYDRICHARDS

Image Credits
The images belong to myself