For Louisiana-based artist Justin Solomon, creativity has always been more than a skill — it has been a way of processing the world. From childhood days spent copying Dragon Ball Z and Yu-Gi-Oh! characters onto stacks of paper, to recent international exhibitions, Solomon’s journey reflects the persistence, intentionality, and emotional depth that define his work.

Driven by a passion for the Black figure as a central subject and a belief in art as a bridge between inner experience and outer expression, Solomon’s practice continues to evolve. His work is both personal and universal, aiming not just to be seen, but deeply felt.

A Creative Spark That Started Early

Solomon’s love for art was first sparked in elementary school. Though self-taught at first, replicating his favorite anime and card game characters, it wasn’t long before classmates and teachers encouraged him to pursue formal training. That push led him into after-school art classes, where he began developing beyond imitation and into exploration.

Looking back, he remains grateful for those early influences. “As I’ve gotten older, I often look back and feel so grateful that they had such a creative impact on younger me,” he says. What began as fascination with pop culture grew into a lifelong calling.

Today, his creative work spans mixed media, digital, and acrylic painting. Each piece reflects his belief that art is not just expression but a conversation — one that helps people pause, reflect, and feel something deeply.

Building a Practice Rooted in Emotion and Intention

Solomon describes himself as a creator who puts equal weight on narrative and visual impact. His current body of work includes one-of-one pieces — each carefully designed with an emphasis on emotional connection and intentional detail.

“What sets my work apart is its intentionality and at times emotional depth,” he says. “I put great care into the details, hoping to make the viewer not just look at the art, but feel something through it.”

For Solomon, the truest measure of success comes when people tell him a piece spoke to them or resonated on a personal level. “Anyone can make art, but making art that connects? That’s what I consider true artistry,” he explains.

Recognition at Home and Abroad

In recent years, Solomon has gained recognition both locally and internationally. His piece I Am Not Alone was featured in the You Aren’t Alone Project in Baton Rouge, which focused on mental health awareness. Another piece, Wild Thoughts / Controlled Thoughts, won third place in LSU’s “WILD” Summer Contemporary Exhibition at the Glassell Gallery.

Beyond local exhibitions, Solomon’s work has also reached global audiences through The Holy Art Gallery, with features in both the UK and Italy. Each experience, he says, reinforces the idea that art has the power to travel further than he ever imagined.

“These opportunities reminded me that what I make has the power to reach people in ways I never could have planned,” he reflects.

The Challenges of a Creative Life

Despite the successes, Solomon is candid about the struggles that come with choosing a creative career. Unlike traditional professions, the path is often nonlinear, uncertain, and lacking in immediate validation. “There’s no clear path, no guarantees, and a lot of times no immediate validation,” he says.

He also stresses the emotional demands of creating. “It’s not just about making colorful or pretty things, it’s about looking within, self-reflecting, being vulnerable, and constantly pushing through self-doubt,” he explains.

There is also a misconception, he adds, that creativity flows effortlessly. In reality, the process is often trial and error, long hours, and persistent battles with perfectionism. Still, his advice to aspiring creatives is simple: don’t give up. “Being creative is not about being ‘special,’ it’s about being willing,” he says. “Willing to stay curious, willing to be misunderstood, and willing to keep going even when no one’s watching.”

The Reward of Resonance

For Solomon, the greatest reward comes when viewers interact with his work in unexpected ways. “It’s not always about them understanding exactly what I meant, but about them engaging with it in their own way,” he says.

He values the openness of interpretation, seeing art not as a rigid message but as a shared experience between artist and audience. “Everyone sees something different, and honestly, that’s half the fun of being a creative,” he reflects.

Creating Space for Reflection

Through his art, Justin Solomon invites people to slow down, reflect, and feel. His work is not only a record of his own inner journey but also a mirror in which viewers can find their own meaning. Whether featured in a gallery, added to someone’s home, or shared online, his pieces offer an opportunity for connection in a fast-paced world.

As Solomon continues to grow his practice, he remains committed to one guiding principle: authenticity. His art is a reminder that creativity is not about following a straight line but about staying true to the willingness to create, to feel, and to keep going.

Contact Info:
Website: justinrsolomon.wixsite.com/artofjsolomon
Instagram: @Trillovative
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