Continuous Creation with CJ Hart
CJ Hart
CJ Hart holds a special place in our hearts (no pun intended) as one of the most inspiring and creative forces, we have the fortune to collaborate with. As a storyteller through and through, he tells us more about his life modeling, acting, and writing in New York City. Keep reading to see how CJ inspires us never stop creating, especially during these unprecedented times.
01 What inspires you to keep creating during these times? Where does your motivation STem from?
Creating is like breathing to me. It’s an innate thing that enables a certain level of comfort to get me through this wild, wild world. So, just like breathing, my creativity needs no inspiration but is a necessity. I am motivated by the opportunity of life. Sounds cliché but if I can wake up and create, it's a good day.
“if I can wake up and create it’s a good day.”
02 What can you tell us about your evolvement in the upcoming project, Black Boy Fly, and what are you most excited for the world to see when it's available?
“Black Boy Fly” is a guardian angel that morphed into an experience to remind me there are so many ways for me to be loved and for me to love myself. I am just a model in Joshua Renfoe and Curtis Taylor’s “Black Boy fly” but I hope to be a visual inspiration for anyone wanting to explore themselves. Most specifically, black boys/men. I’m most excited for the people that put the project together. Creating something and sharing it with the world is not easy. I hope the release will put them at ease.
03 What is the biggest frustration or challenge you face as a creative?
The biggest challenge I face is the need for validation. It is unfortunate that artists are not valued or are withheld from certain opportunities until they work for a particular brand, platform, or are in proximity of a group/person that has already seen success. It no longer frustrates me because I refuse to doubt myself in a world where everyone is continuously learning.
04 Name one creative who inspires you and why?
One creative that constantly inspires me is Tarell Alvin McCraney, a very accomplished writer but more to me a friend. He reminds me that vulnerability is a powerful sword and a necessary shield. He also bridges the gap for a world I never thought I’d get to know, which gives me a target to actually aim for.
05 We know you're an avid reader. If you could recommend one book for fellow creators to read what would you suggest?
Yes, I’m currently revisiting “Between the World and Me” by Ta-nehisi Coates. I love it because it talks to me like a father would. It cares for me enough to tell me the truth but gives me jurisdiction to decide whether to accept that truth or not. It reminds me that we are wired a certain way and the rewiring takes time and courage. Just like creating, work on yourself and you work on your art.
- CJ Hart
Photography: @pinkmashhh, @nicokartel, @jamesmjeter, and @mylesloftin