Recognizing the Renaissance: Malachi Dawkins

Who are your biggest influences in and how have those influences shaped you personally as an artist?

As an artist, my biggest influences stem from a blend of classic and contemporary sources. Growing up, I was captivated by the works of Jean-Michel Basquiat and Frida Kahlo. Their ability to convey profound emotion and storytelling through bold, vivid imagery has deeply resonated with me.

From Basquiat, I've learned the power of raw expression and the importance of embracing one's unique voice, even when it's unconventional. His work taught me that art could be a form of personal liberation and social commentary.

Frida Kahlo’s intimate and introspective approach has inspired me to explore and depict personal narratives and emotions in my work. Her courage to paint her pain and passion encourages me to create art that is honest and reflective of my own experiences.


On the contemporary side, the digital and street art scenes have been incredibly influential. Artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairey have shown me how art can intersect with activism and public discourse, pushing me to think about how my work can contribute to broader conversations and social change.

These influences have shaped me by instilling a fearless approach to creativity, encouraging me to merge personal experience with broader societal themes, and motivating me to continually evolve and push boundaries in my art.














How do you see your art journey 10 years in the future ?
I envision my art journey evolving in several exciting ways.

Firstly, I hope to have expanded WiseMinds Studios into a renowned creative hub, not only producing a diverse range of digital and physical art but also fostering a community of emerging artists. I aim to create a space where creativity thrives, and artists can collaborate, learn, and grow together.

On a personal level, I see myself exploring new mediums and technologies. As the digital art landscape continues to evolve, I'm excited about the possibilities of integrating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) into my work, creating immersive experiences that engage audiences in entirely new ways.

I also aspire to have my work featured in international exhibitions and galleries, reaching a global audience and contributing to important cultural dialogues. Additionally, I hope to use my art to support social causes, using my platform to raise awareness and inspire action on issues I'm passionate about.

Teaching and mentoring the next generation of artists is another goal. I’d love to develop workshops and courses that help young creatives find their voice and navigate the art world.

In essence, I see my art journey as one of continuous growth, exploration, and impact—pushing creative boundaries while making a positive difference in the world.













What started you on your creative journey towards creating art?
My creative journey began at a young age, sparked by a natural curiosity and an insatiable desire to express myself visually. Growing up, I was always drawn to colors, shapes, and the way they could convey emotions and tell stories. I remember spending countless hours doodling, painting, and experimenting with different materials, completely absorbed in the process of creation.

The pivotal moment came when I was introduced to the works of artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Frida Kahlo. Their boldness and ability to pour their souls into their art deeply resonated with me. It was then that I realized art was more than just a hobby—it was a powerful medium for communication and connection.

As I grew older, I delved into different forms of art, from traditional painting to digital design. Each new medium offered a fresh way to explore and express my thoughts, experiences, and perspectives. Along the way, I received support and encouragement from mentors, teachers, and fellow artists, which fueled my passion and determination
Starting WiseMinds Studios was a natural progression of this journey. It allowed me to channel my creativity into a purpose, creating pieces that not only reflect my artistic vision but also resonate with and inspire others. My goal has always been to create art that speaks to people on a personal level, evoking emotions and sparking conversations.










How do you view your roles as a creative in the emerging Ai industry and what goals have you set for yourself amidst the beginning of this new era?


As a creative in the emerging AI industry, I see my role as both an innovator and a bridge between technology and traditional artistic expression.

AI presents a fascinating new frontier for creativity, offering tools and possibilities that can enhance and transform the way we create and experience art. My goal is to harness these technologies to push the boundaries of my work, exploring new mediums and methods that blend human creativity with AI capabilities.

One of my primary goals is to develop AI-assisted art that maintains a deep emotional and personal connection. While AI can generate incredible patterns and designs, I believe the human touch is essential for creating pieces that resonate on a profound level. By integrating AI into my workflow, I aim to create art that is not only visually stunning but also rich in narrative and meaning.

Additionally, I’m committed to educating and empowering other artists to embrace AI in their creative processes. Through workshops, tutorials, and collaborations, I hope to demystify AI tools and demonstrate how they can be used to enhance rather than replace traditional artistic skills.

Another important goal is to use AI to amplify social and cultural messages within my art. AI can analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns, which can be leveraged to highlight important issues and spark meaningful conversations.

Ultimately, I see myself as a pioneer in this new era, experimenting with AI to discover innovative ways to express ideas and emotions. By staying at the forefront of this technology, I aim to create art that is not only cutting-edge but also deeply human.










What does a modern black art Renaissance look like to you?


To me, a modern Black art Renaissance is a vibrant, dynamic movement that celebrates the richness and diversity of Black culture, experiences, and perspectives. It's an era where Black artists have the freedom and support to create authentically, pushing boundaries and influencing global culture.

In this Renaissance, we see a surge of creativity across all mediums—visual arts, music, literature, film, and digital media. Artists are drawing from their heritage while also exploring contemporary themes, creating works that are both rooted in tradition and forward-thinking.

We see Black artists being prominently featured in galleries, museums, festivals, and digital platforms worldwide. Their stories and voices are amplified, allowing a broader audience to appreciate and engage with their work.

I’ve noticed a fearless approach to blending traditional techniques with modern technology. From AI-generated art and digital installations to virtual reality experiences, Black artists are at the forefront of innovation.

Ive also felt that the movement thrives on a strong sense of community. Artists support and uplifting each other, collaborating across disciplines to create powerful, multifaceted works. This sense of unity has extended to mentorship programs, workshops, and initiatives that nurture emerging talent.

This new era of black art and artists has witnessed art become a medium for celebrating Black culture and addressing social issues. Through their work, artists shed light on topics like racial equality, identity, and justice, fostering dialogue and inspiring change.

This new renaissance has included a focus on economic empowerment, with Black artists gaining access to resources, funding, and opportunities that enable sustainable careers. Platforms like WiseMinds Studios aim play a role in this by providing avenues for artists to monetize their work and reach global markets.

We are also seeing black art and culture influence global trends, shaping fashion, music, design, and more. This Renaissance is not confined to one region; it's a global phenomenon that celebrates the universal impact of Black creativity.

Ultimately, a modern Black art Renaissance is about breaking barriers and building bridges. It's a powerful, transformative movement that honors the past, embraces the present, and shapes the future. I'm excited to be part of this journey, contributing to a legacy of creativity, resilience, and excellence.









How would you explain your visual style and what is your thought process behind creating an artwork?
My visual style is a dynamic blend of bold colors, intricate details, and a fusion of traditional and contemporary elements. I draw inspiration from a variety of sources, including cultural heritage, personal experiences, and the vibrant world around me. My work often incorporates themes of identity, resilience, and social commentary, aiming to evoke both an emotional and intellectual response from the viewer.

I use a rich palette to create striking contrasts and highlight key elements within the artwork. Color is a powerful tool for conveying emotions and setting the tone of the piece.

Attention to detail is paramount in my work. Whether it's the texture of a background or the patterns within a subject, these details add depth and invite viewers to explore the artwork more closely.

My art blends traditional motifs with modern aesthetics, reflecting the intersection of past and present. This fusion creates a unique visual language that speaks to diverse audiences.

Each piece tells a story, often rooted in personal or collective experiences. I aim to create a visual narrative that resonates with viewers, encouraging them to reflect on their own journeys.

Every piece begins with an idea or a feeling I want to express. I often start with brainstorming and sketching to flesh out the initial concept. This stage involves a lot of research and reflection, especially if the piece addresses complex themes or social issues.








What are some of your favorite genres of art?


I gather inspiration from various sources—photographs, literature, music, and other artworks. This helps me build a visual and emotional framework for the piece.

I consider the composition carefully, thinking about how elements will interact on the canvas even if it is digital. This includes deciding on the focal point, the flow of the piece, and how to balance detail and space.

Choosing the right color palette is crucial. I experiment with different combinations to find the hues that best convey the mood and message of the artwork.

My favorite genres of art span a wide range, reflecting my diverse interests and inspirations. Here are a few that particularly resonate with me:

I love the freedom and creativity that abstract art offers. It's all about emotion and interpretation, allowing both the artist and the viewer to connect on a personal level without the constraints of realistic representation.

The imaginative and dreamlike quality of surrealist art fascinates me. Artists like Salvador Dalí and René Magritte create worlds that challenge perceptions and explore the subconscious, which is incredibly inspiring.

Street art’s boldness and its ability to transform public spaces resonate with me deeply. Artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairey use their work to make powerful social and political statements, which I find both impactful and thought-provoking.

This genre celebrates the richness of African culture and heritage. Artists like El Anatsui and Yinka Shonibare create works that blend traditional African elements with contemporary themes, resulting in vibrant and meaningful pieces.

As someone who works extensively with digital media, I appreciate the versatility and innovation in digital art. The ability to blend various techniques and media to create something entirely new is exciting and limitless.

The emphasis on light and color in impressionist art is captivating. Artists like Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh use loose brushwork and vibrant palettes to capture the essence of a moment, which I find incredibly beautiful and evocative.

Each of these genres influences my work in different ways, from the techniques I use to the themes I explore. They all contribute to a richer, more diverse creative practice.









How has your experience been being a black artist in a new emerging ai space and what difficult experiences have you encountered?
Being a Black artist in the emerging AI space has been a journey of both exciting opportunities and significant challenges. I’ve found that AI offers new tools and methods for creative expression, allowing me to push the boundaries of traditional art forms. It's exhilarating to experiment with AI-generated art and see how technology can augment creativity. The digital nature of AI art makes it easier to share my work with a global audience, breaking down geographical barriers and connecting with diverse communities. AI enables the blending of different cultural elements in innovative ways. I can incorporate traditional African motifs with modern technology to create unique pieces that resonate on multiple levels. There's also a growing community of artists of color in the AI space. We support and inspire each other, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.

But one of the biggest challenges is the lack of representation and visibility for Black artists in the AI space. While there are many talented artists of color, they are often underrepresented in mainstream platforms and exhibitions. AI algorithms can sometimes reflect the biases present in their training data. This can result in artwork that unintentionally perpetuates stereotypes or excludes certain perspectives. Addressing and mitigating these biases requires constant vigilance and advocacy. Access to advanced AI tools and technologies can be limited by cost and availability. This creates a barrier for many emerging artists who may not have the resources to invest in expensive software or hardware. Also don’t forget that there’s a fine line between cultural appreciation and appropriation, especially when using AI to blend different artistic styles. Ensuring that my work respects and honors the cultural elements it draws from is a priority but can be challenging in a digital landscape. As a Black artist in a predominantly white tech industry, gaining acceptance and validation for my work can sometimes be an uphill battle. It requires persistence, resilience, and a strong belief in the value of my contributions.

Despite these challenges, the journey has been incredibly rewarding. The emerging AI space holds immense potential for innovation and inclusivity. By continuing to create, collaborate, and advocate, I aim to carve out a space where diverse voices and perspectives are celebrated and where art and technology intersect in meaningful ways.











What's your experience using this technology, do you feel as an artist it help create the images you truly wish to see represent ?
My experience using AI technology as an artist has been both empowering and enlightening. When it comes to ai and how it has impacted my creative process and ability to bring my visions to life, AI technology provides a plethora of tools that enhance my creative capabilities. From generating unique patterns to experimenting with new styles, AI expands the horizons of what I can achieve in my art. It also helps streamline certain aspects of the artistic process, such as refining details, color balancing, and creating complex compositions. This allows me to focus more on the conceptual and expressive aspects of my work. AI platforms open up innovative possibilities that were previously unimaginable. It allows me to merge traditional techniques with futuristic elements, creating a unique fusion that represents my artistic vision. AI has assisted me in overcoming technical limitations that may arise due to skill gaps or time constraints. It acts as a collaborative partner, bringing technical finesse to my creative ideas. ive also had challenges , while AI offers incredible tools, ensuring that the final artwork authentically represents my vision requires careful guidance and input. It's essential to maintain a balance between AI’s capabilities and my creative control. Not to mention that there’s a significant learning curve associated with mastering AI tools. Understanding how to effectively utilize these technologies to enhance rather than overshadow my creative process has been a crucial part of the journey.

One of my primary concerns is maintaining the integrity and uniqueness of my work. AI can sometimes generate results that feel more mechanical than artistic. It’s important for me to infuse my personal touch and emotions into each piece, ensuring that the art remains a true reflection of my vision.

I mentioned biases before. AI can sometimes reflect inherent biases present in its training data. Being aware of this and actively working to mitigate it is crucial to ensure that my artwork is inclusive and respectful of diverse perspectives.

Overall, AI technology has been a valuable ally in my artistic journey. It has helped me push the boundaries of my creativity and realize visions that were once confined to my imagination. The key is to use AI as a tool to augment, rather than replace, the human touch in art. By combining the strengths of AI with my artistic intuition, I’m able to create images that truly represent my vision and resonate with my audience.












If there is one thing you wish to be remembered for by the end of your artistic journey , what would that be?


By the end of my artistic journey, if there is one thing I wish to be remembered for, it would be the ability to create art that inspires meaningful conversations and connects people on a deeper level.

I want my art to inspire change, whether it’s sparking discussions about important social issues, encouraging self-reflection, or motivating action. I hope my work can contribute to a better understanding of different perspectives and foster empathy and compassion.

I strive to create art that is authentic and true to my experiences and heritage. I hope to be remembered for staying true to my voice and using it to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.

As an artist working with AI, I aim to seamlessly blend traditional artistic techniques with modern technology. I hope my work can serve as a testament to the possibilities that arise when we embrace innovation while honoring our roots.

I wish to be remembered for my efforts to support and uplift other artists, particularly those from underrepresented communities. Whether through mentorship, collaboration, or creating opportunities, I want to help others achieve their artistic dreams.

Ultimately, art is about connection. I hope my work resonates emotionally with people, creating a lasting impact that transcends the canvas or screen. If my art can touch hearts and minds, I will consider my journey a success.

If I can leave behind a legacy of art that challenges, inspires, and connects, I will feel that I have accomplished my mission as an artist. Thank you for the question and for giving me the opportunity to reflect on what truly matters in my artistic journey.