Happy Tuesday beautiful people!
No Truthy Tuesday this week, but I have something even better- a brand new Artist Spotlight! This is quickly becoming one of my favorite features for the blog.
Today it’s all about DaVion- better known as Dae! I don’t remember how I came across his work, but I am happy I did. I was drawn to his honest writing and warm spirit, so when I was in LA a couple months ago, we linked up! I photographed Dae for his feature and he was so kind to answer a few questions about his art.
So now you guys get to meet him :)
What is your name?
DaVion “Dae” Lee. I’m often known by my social media moniker, Daeizm.
Where are you located?
I reside in Los Angeles, CA. Jefferson Park is the district I’m in.
What do you do?
As of now, I am primarily a writer. The old adage of the starving artist is me, haha.
How long have you been a writer?
I’ve written for most of my life, dating back to elementary school.
How did you become interested in writing and when did you know you wanted to make a career out of your passion?
I believe I became interested in writing through my lore of illustration and how each drawing held a story behind it. I was, and still am, a fan of animation and the stories they tell. Back in elementary school, I would write short stories that were fantasies based off of my life and would draw characters to accompany them. As I grew older, writing became my muse for a myriad of experiences I would endure growing up. I didn’t have many people to speak on my problems with so writing was therapeutic for me. I’ve always danced around the idea of pursuing a writing career. But it wasn’t until the injury I sustained last year (2013) that I went for it. And I’m glad I did, this has felt like part of my calling. It brings me joy connecting with so many beautiful spirits through this passion of mine.
Who are some of your influences/inspirations?
There are so many that I know I’ll be leaving out someone important, to me. My mom and grandmother, my family; the love of my life. As far as writing goes, Sylvia Plath, Maya Angelou, Stevie Wonder, Frank Ocean and his team, Sharon Olds, Langston Hughes, Rumi, Nayyirah Waheed, Bukowski, Alex Elle, on friends of mine that write, Abeo K., Fela Ella, Eryn Amel, Sade Harrison, Romylnn Ramos, Tyler Kent White. I’m also a huge fan of Dyme Taylor’s work. There’s so many to name.
What has been your favorite project that you’ve worked on so far?
My favorite has been #WordsFromSouls, which I was inspired to make because of my writer’s block. I asked a few people close to me to give any word that spoke to them and I would surprise them with a piece written with that word. I then asked them to write one as well to that same word and the rest was history. I was bless to be introduce to so many new people whom I have since become friends with. That, by far, is my favorite project.
What other types of creative work do you do?
Aside from writing, I was an illustrator of my own comics during junior high. I’ve also produced music. Music is everywhere for me, so I often beatbox or create a beat with any inanimate object I see or sound I hear.
What inspires you?
My life, the fact that I exist in the vast universe, inspires me to want greatness for myself and to share with close ones around me.
What keeps you motivated?
Staying motivated is always a challenge. But I find it within all of the experiences I’ve endured. Whether from my past or any hurdle I’m currently facing, the feeling of defeat tends to push me to prove myself wrong or right; within the context of my subconscious.
Any advice to fellow creatives (in your industry or otherwise)?
Whatever it is you wish to do, do it. Go for it. I’m a firm believer of fighting for yourself. That little idea in your head isn’t ridiculous, it’s magic. For writing, Don’t focus so much on being grammatically correct, focus more on being honest. Often with this art, we tend to want it to be as correct as possible and it dilutes our language, thus diluting us. My favorite work is the works of raw and honest artists. Those who bypass all of the “gold standards” of writing and speak from the soul. Remember this is more of an art than a craft, so make it yours!
Any other fun tidbits we should know about you?
I have a beautiful and radiant soul of a girlfriend. She has been my peace and my strength when I have none. I do blog often and I’m not sure if I’m typecasted as the “quiet, and peaceful” one but my blog is all over the place, haha. I’m human. I’m a researcher of almost everything so I have a bunch of random facts I blurt out from time to time. A huge fan of cartoons, comedy and anime, as well as my new favorite, horror films. I hope to make a short film of horror soon. As well as a story I’ve been working on while finishing my book that will be a bit of a drama.
Where can we find you online?
instagram: @daeizm
twitter: @daeizm
tumblr: @daeizm
etsy: http://etsy.com/shop/DaeizmWrites
I hope you enjoyed getting to know Dae a bit better! Make sure to follow him on social media for “dae"ly doses of awesomeness ;)
-Danni
“Though I was a little nervous the morning of our mentor session, that quickly changed when I reached our first location and everything got started. Danielle is so down to earth, and her warm personality and genuine smile made me feel super comfortable. Her teaching style was very thorough and she really made sure to give each one of us individual attention throughout the day. She helped me to discover functions on my camera that I didn’t even know were there, and showed me various tips and techniques for shooting and editing which have made things so much easier for me…and it has only been a week! I’m so glad that I was able to participate in this mentor session and would definitely attend future workshops with Danielle.”
If you have any questions, please let me know and I’ll be happy to answer them for you!
That’s it for me today and I hope to hear from you and work with you very soon :)
Have a great weekend!
-Danielle
