Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sylvanus Leone. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Sylvanus, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
The biggest risk I have ever taken was embarking on the journey of starting my own business. Believing in myself and having the confidence to share my talents with the world has never come naturally to me. In fact, it has been an arduous process to overcome my self-doubt and take the leap into entrepreneurship.
Initially, I was extremely private about my artistic gifts, hesitant to share them with others. Throughout my life, there was never much encouragement to showcase my creative talents, leading me to keep that side of me hidden from the world. Despite pursuing a degree in communications, I found myself stuck in customer service and sales positions for years, feeling unsatisfied and unfulfilled.
It took me a considerable amount of time to tap into the inherent gifts that I had always possessed. Once I mustered the courage to embrace my true abilities, a sense of liberation washed over me. The fear of being judged or criticized for something I had created weighed heavily on my mind, especially since my background and experiences made me somewhat different from the norm.
Being born in Africa but raised in America, I faced a dual identity struggle. From my African family’s perspective, my creative side was seen as a hobby as opposed to who I am. From my American experience, my African background left me open to cruel criticism. This constant tug-of-war left me feeling like I wanted to disappear from the world, avoiding any potential criticism or rejection. The best thing for me to do at that time was ton internalize my feelings and create my own reality.
Nonetheless, deep down, I knew I couldn’t continue living in the shadows. I realized that my talents were meant to be shared, and I owed it to myself to take that risk. Starting my own business allowed me to combine my expertise and artistic gifts, creating a platform to express myself and offer valuable services to the world.
While the journey hasn’t been without its challenges, the rewards have far outweighed the risks. By pushing myself to overcome self-doubt and embrace my uniqueness, I have found a newfound sense of purpose and fulfillment. Taking that leap of faith has not only allowed me to grow as an individual but has also empowered me to make a positive impact in my industry and inspire others to embrace their own talents and passions.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I was born in Freetown, Sierra Leone, a city located in West Africa. My early years were spent living in London before eventually making the move to California. Growing up, I had a unique upbringing, being raised by my grandmother in Africa and then later sent to live with my father in California. Navigating the cultural differences of being an African boy in America was challenging. I often felt isolated during those times.
To cope with the challenges and isolation, I turned to my creative outlets. I would immerse myself in reading and drawing, and I discovered my passion for photography by taking my dad’s camera and capturing moments. As time went on, I obtained my own camera and started photographing my peers in high school. Through my artistic and athletic abilities, I was able to connect with people and bridge the gap between cultures.
Unfortunately, due to my cultural background, the arts were not encouraged in my upbringing. I ended up conforming to societal expectations and pursued a safer path by studying business and communications in college. However, deep inside, I was truly unhappy with the direction my life was taking. The desire to create and express myself continued to grow.
Eventually, I reached a turning point where I became extremely comfortable with who I am and the gifts I wanted to pursue in life. Money was never my driving force; it was always about finding purpose. As an artist and filmmaker, I possess a diverse range of talents, including oil painting, photography, film directing, and editing. My ultimate purpose in creating is to convey healing through art and the creative process.
What sets me apart is not only my artistic abilities but also my unique background and deep spiritual influence. I take immense pride in my collection of paintings titled “Ego versus Soul” which explores our inner fight with being spiritual beings living a human existence. Also, I directed a short film called “Night Ride Home.” The short film follows a young woman going through a tumultuous time in her life that leaves her in a depressive state. She finds support in her core group of friends that support her through this time. These projects represent my passion for creating meaningful content that resonates with people on a deeper level.
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative individual is the freedom to truly be myself. Through my artistic endeavors, I can express myself in ways that are authentic and genuine. This newfound freedom allows me to break free from societal constraints and embrace my true identity.
Creating art provides a platform where my dreams can transform into reality. It’s an incredible feeling to see my visions come to life and share them with the world. Whether it’s through paintings, photographs, films, or other mediums, I have the power to manifest my imagination and bring it into existence. This ability to turn abstract ideas into tangible creations is immensely rewarding and fulfilling.
Furthermore, being an artist grants me the opportunity to explore my innermost thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It serves as a form of therapy, enabling me to delve deep into my own psyche and understand myself on a deeper level. Through my creative expression, I can communicate messages, convey emotions, and tell stories that resonate with others.
In addition to personal fulfillment, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the impact I can have on others. Art has the power to inspire, provoke thought, and evoke emotions in its viewers. When my work resonates with someone else, when it connects with their own experiences or touches their hearts, it creates a profound connection. Knowing that my art has the ability to make a positive impact on others’ lives is incredibly rewarding and drives me to continue creating.
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
One of the challenges I have faced as an artist and creative individual is the doubt and skepticism that non-creative people often bring. It’s something I have struggled with frequently. Many people fail to understand that being an artist is not always a choice but rather an integral part of who you are. Non-creative individuals may underestimate the value and potential of pursuing a creative path, especially in terms of financial stability.
When pursuing something you love, you cannot concern yourself with what others think. There will always be judgment and doubt surrounding the pursuit of a creative career. However, it is crucial to rise above the negativity and not let the opinions of others deter you from following your passion.
In my experience, I have found it incredibly useful to maintain a level of secrecy about my plans and aspirations. Not everyone needs to know the specifics of my creative endeavors. Instead, I focus on surrounding myself with a team or individuals who understand and share my vision. These are the people who provide the necessary support and encouragement to help bring my creative ideas to life.
It has been through trial and error that I have learned these valuable lessons. Not everyone will support your dreams, and even those you expect to be supportive may choose not to be. Believing in yourself relentlessly and closing the door to the nonbelievers becomes most important. It requires a steadfast belief in yourself and the willingness to protect one’s dreams from those who may discourage or tear them down.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sylvanusleone.com. www.artgonerogue
- Instagram: @sylvanusleone. @artgonerogue
- Facebook: facebook.com/sylvanusleone
- Linkedin: sylvanusleone
- Twitter: sylvanusleone
- Youtube: sylvanusleone