We're excited to continue our special series in honor of Black History Month by highlighting the amazing creativity of Black artists in the crafting community! Each week, we'll introduce you incredible creators whose artistry inspires us.
Previously, we've connected with Christine and Amber, who shared their creative journey and stunning art. This week, we’re thrilled to introduce Jonathan Young and Jasmine at Shockolate Energy Cosplay, talented cosplayers and artists whose work showcases their unique perspective and bold use of techniques.
Photo By: dtjaaaam
How do you hope your art inspires or impacts future generations of creators?
Jonathan: I hope it encourages people to make art that they want to make and not what the algorithm wants. Also, be willing to take risks and be open-minded to new techniques
Can you share how Plaid products have helped you bring your art to life?
Jonathan: For cosplays I work on. Painting to me is what truly brings a piece to life. Plaid offers a lot of colors that happen to fit perfectly what I have in mind when painting.
Photo by: cjstilesphoto
How do you approach overcoming creative blocks or challenges?
Jonathan: I take breaks and go over what I have done. The latter to see what I can improve on. Another thing I do is learn new skill sets or hone existing techniques I learn. The last thing I do is look at various media for ideas and inspiration.
What skill or technique are you excited to learn next?
Jonathan: Weathering techniques is a skill I’ve been meaning to learn. Mainly for some cosplay ideas I have in mind.
Photo By: Fanservice Renji
What project are you most proud of and how did you bring it to life?
Jasmine: The cosplay project I am most proud of is my Athena from Saint Seiya. This cosplay means the world to me. It was one of the first cosplays that I made by hand. Now, only it was my first Budget Builds; it was the first time using plaid paint, sewing, and different techniques. I even won an award for it. The Saint Seiya (also called Knight of the Zodiac) series is near and dear to my heart since it was my dad's favorite anime.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger creative self, what would it be?
Jasmine: Be your best you. It's okay if you do not know all the fundamentals of certain things you are trying to learn or do. What matters is the journey and the process.
Photo By: Shining Eternity
What excites you most about experimenting with new Plaid materials or techniques?
Jasmine: The best part of experimenting with new Plaid materials is learning new things that will enrich the growth of the cosplay community. I love finding techniques that maybe other cosplayers may not know and posting them on social media so more people can be aware. I also love finding out techniques to make crafting a more fun and better experience.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a creator?
Jasmine: The best lesson for all creators is to know that everyone starts somewhere, please do not compare yourself to others and make your journey. It's also super important to give back to the community that gave to you.
Be sure to check out more of Jonathan’s and Shockolate Energy Cosplay. Don’t forget to tune in next week as we continue our Black History Month series with another amazing creator!
Previously, we've connected with Christine and Amber, who shared their creative journey and stunning art. This week, we’re thrilled to introduce Jonathan Young and Jasmine at Shockolate Energy Cosplay, talented cosplayers and artists whose work showcases their unique perspective and bold use of techniques.
Photo By: dtjaaaam
How do you hope your art inspires or impacts future generations of creators?
Jonathan: I hope it encourages people to make art that they want to make and not what the algorithm wants. Also, be willing to take risks and be open-minded to new techniques
Can you share how Plaid products have helped you bring your art to life?
Jonathan: For cosplays I work on. Painting to me is what truly brings a piece to life. Plaid offers a lot of colors that happen to fit perfectly what I have in mind when painting.
Photo by: cjstilesphoto
How do you approach overcoming creative blocks or challenges?
Jonathan: I take breaks and go over what I have done. The latter to see what I can improve on. Another thing I do is learn new skill sets or hone existing techniques I learn. The last thing I do is look at various media for ideas and inspiration.
What skill or technique are you excited to learn next?
Jonathan: Weathering techniques is a skill I’ve been meaning to learn. Mainly for some cosplay ideas I have in mind.
Photo By: Fanservice Renji
What project are you most proud of and how did you bring it to life?
Jasmine: The cosplay project I am most proud of is my Athena from Saint Seiya. This cosplay means the world to me. It was one of the first cosplays that I made by hand. Now, only it was my first Budget Builds; it was the first time using plaid paint, sewing, and different techniques. I even won an award for it. The Saint Seiya (also called Knight of the Zodiac) series is near and dear to my heart since it was my dad's favorite anime.
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger creative self, what would it be?
Jasmine: Be your best you. It's okay if you do not know all the fundamentals of certain things you are trying to learn or do. What matters is the journey and the process.
Photo By: Shining Eternity
What excites you most about experimenting with new Plaid materials or techniques?
Jasmine: The best part of experimenting with new Plaid materials is learning new things that will enrich the growth of the cosplay community. I love finding techniques that maybe other cosplayers may not know and posting them on social media so more people can be aware. I also love finding out techniques to make crafting a more fun and better experience.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learned as a creator?
Jasmine: The best lesson for all creators is to know that everyone starts somewhere, please do not compare yourself to others and make your journey. It's also super important to give back to the community that gave to you.
Be sure to check out more of Jonathan’s and Shockolate Energy Cosplay. Don’t forget to tune in next week as we continue our Black History Month series with another amazing creator!
