We recently connected with Skylar Bush and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Skylar, thanks for joining us today. Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?
I hope to build a legacy that highlights strength and determination in the midst of difficulties. As an up and coming photographer, I’ve noticed a lack of representation for Black women in artistic fields. Through my work, I look to bring attention to this disparity and portray the stories of individuals who may feel similar feelings of isolation. I hope to evoke a sense of empathy, encouraging others to view the people around them with compassion. I often take inspiration from artists that have come before me and examine the way they approached sensitive subjects in their work. After I’m gone, I hope that I will be a similar source of inspiration for others.

Skylar, 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?
I currently study photography at Cal State Long Beach. I got my start in photography in the 7th grade when I took my first photography class. I was unaware how much I would grow to love this medium. My work often documents the world around me through a lens that is uniquely my own. One of the most rewarding aspects of my photographic journey is the opportunity to work with others. Through portrait and event photography, I am able to capture special moments in their lives, freezing them in time and preserving them through visual narratives. As a student, I am encouraged to take risks, push boundaries, and experiment with new techniques. This gives me the unique opportunity to provide services to others while also growing as an artist. I primarily work with digital cameras, but enjoy stepping out of my comfort zone and experimenting with film photography. I’ve been on an exciting journey of self-discovery where each project, client, and moment behind the camera contribute to my overall growth as a photographer. I’m constantly looking to build my portfolio, hone my skills, and make new connections along the way.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
Through my photography, I aim to achieve two interconnected objectives. The first is to amplify the voices and stories of underrepresented communities. In highlighting these stories, I hope to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity, while encouraging viewers to adopt a more empathetic and open-minded perspective. Visual arts have the ability to evoke emotions and provoke thought, sparking dialogue amongst viewers. Photography also presents the opportunity to share my unique perspective with others and encourage them to consider the world from a different vantage point. On my creative journey, I hope to continue learning about diverse art forms, all the while refining my artistic voice.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist/creative is the opportunity to learn from others, share your unique perspectives with the world, and allow your mind to think freely and express itself through art. Each artist, no matter their discipline, has a unique set of experiences that have influenced their art. Engaging with others and interacting with their work challenges my own ideas, causing me to evaluate and refine my creative approach. Similarly, sharing my work with others empowers me to give voice to ideas and concepts that might be challenging to convey through other means. The artistic journey fosters personal growth and helps to build connections with others who share your passions and enthusiasm. It’s an ongoing process of inspiration and transformation that enriches not only your life, but the lives of those who engage with your work as well.

Contact Info:
- Website: https://skylarbush01.myportfolio.com/work
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shots_bysky/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skylar.bush.3551/

