Rooted in Philadelphia’s vibrant creative ecosystem, this artist moves fluidly between the worlds of business and visual expression. With a background in business development and a deep commitment to artistic integrity, his practice reflects both strategic intention and emotional honesty. His work—often centered on healing, mental health, and Black joy—invites viewers into moments of reflection, connection, and color-filled possibility, while his approach to career-building offers a compelling blueprint for artists navigating creativity and entrepreneurship in tandem.
How have you approached building your career as a creative and a businessman; what early lessons helped you take ownership of your brand?
Layone: I’ve been fortunate to exist comfortably in both worlds. With more than fifteen years in business development—helping companies grow, refine their strategies, and expand their reach—I gained a strong foundation that translated naturally into building my own brand. Wearing multiple hats doesn’t intimidate me; it empowers me. I take a hands-on approach to every aspect of my practice, from designing my logo to personally reaching out to curators and museums. That early exposure taught me that ownership isn’t just about control—it’s about intention, consistency, and being deeply invested in every layer of what you’re creating.
In today’s art market, visibility is currency—how do you strategically position your work while remaining authentic to your creative voice?
Layone: Authenticity has always been my compass. I enjoy engaging directly with art lovers, collectors, curators, and institutions through Instagram, using it as a space for conversation rather than promotion alone. Beyond the digital space, I intentionally show up in the physical world—painting live and selling work at art markets throughout Philadelphia. Those moments allow for genuine dialogue, where people can ask questions, hear the stories behind the work, and connect with the intention in real time. That balance keeps the visibility honest and rooted in human connection.
What challenges have you faced navigating the business side of art? How have those experiences reshaped the way you value your time, talent, and intellectual property?
Layone: One of the most challenging aspects of being a visual artist is learning to sit with inspiration quietly—not every idea needs to be shared immediately. Time management becomes especially complex when shifting between roles as an artist, a husband, and a father. Time naturally spills into different areas of life, even with the best intentions. I’ve learned to honor that reality by living fully in the moment and allowing myself to enjoy safe, restorative spaces without guilt. Valuing my time now means understanding that rest, presence, and boundaries are just as critical as productivity.
How have you leveraged community, collaboration, or local networks to expand your reach and opportunities?
Layone: Community has played a major role in my journey. I was commissioned by Mural Arts to create a mural at Love Park, an experience that allowed me to complete the work live while interacting with the public. It was deeply rewarding to witness people engage with the process in real time. I also collaborated on a joint mural at ArtHaus, a beautiful café in Germantown, alongside owner and artist Keisha Whatley and five other mural artists. The piece, Transforming Tragedy, was a powerful reminder of how collaboration amplifies both impact and meaning.
How do you decide which opportunities align with your long-term vision?
Layone: Alignment is everything. When considering collaborations, I’m intentional about working with like-minded creatives who prioritize awareness of the Earth, mental health, and the celebration of Black joy.
What boundaries have you learned to set as your platform continues to grow?
Layone: As my platform grows, I’ve learned that saying “no” is just as important as saying “yes.” Boundaries protect the integrity of the work and ensure that every opportunity contributes to a larger, purpose-driven vision rather than momentary exposure.
How do you diversify your income streams while maintaining creative integrity?
Layone: Every partnership or venture I engage in must align with human experience, healing, and visual storytelling. When someone purchases one of my pieces, the most important part of the exchange is emotional resonance. Integrity lives in that moment of connection—when a buyer feels genuinely moved by the work. The goal isn’t just ownership; it’s the desire to live with a piece that speaks, comforts, and potentially transforms. That emotional exchange is where creative integrity remains intact.
What advice would you offer emerging artists who are gifted creatively but hesitant to step confidently into the role of entrepreneur?
Layone: Fear can attack creatives like a virus—it spreads quickly and settles in the mind if left unchecked. That fear has to be confronted and broken before anything meaningful can happen. Creating in isolation without ever sharing your work can feel safe, but belief in yourself must come before public approval. Internal success—being proud of your own growth and accomplishments—is essential. Without it, you risk relying on external validation to define your worth, which can ultimately make or break your business. Confidence has to be cultivated from within first.
As you look toward the next chapter of your career, what does success look like for you—not just artistically, but also financially, professionally, and personally?
Layone: While I’ve experienced meaningful milestones, I’m eager to push myself further by taking greater risks—creating larger-scale works for corporate spaces and expanding my involvement in mental-health initiatives through art therapy. Art has the power to comfort, heal, and unlock creativity in people who may not realize it’s already within them. I’d love to serve as a catalyst in that journey. Personally, success means creating for as long as my body allows—whether through painting, sculpting, or exploring new mediums. I simply want to live my life in color.
