Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to David Fallon. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
David, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
When I was in college I remember talking a lot about John Locke and the idea of a social contract. A philosophical theory based on the idea that we each have an obligation to respect each other. At the time I was also studying religion and I was very moved by a quote from the disciple John who said, ‘To whom much is given, much will be required.’
Years later I began to see a connection between these ideas. I realized I had been GIVEN many gifts and talents, as an artist. I can communicate in ways others can’t. I can give people hope. I can give people a voice. A picture is worth a thousand words.
Everyone has a right to be RESPECTED. In my art, I show people that.
I sincerely believe that in order to fulfill my end of a social contract I must make art that affects positive social change.
That’s how I found my purpose.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a multimedia artist, primarily working in photography, painting and illustration. Being a black man, I know first hand how destructive prejudice and stereotypes are. I know the price of destructive narratives. And I see how it’s getting worse. So I use my art to fight back.
Currently, I’m working on a series of black and white photographs that represent the beauty of diversity. I work with models that are everyday people, regardless of their race or ethnicity, gender, size, or sexual orientation.
I do this because I see the beauty all around me, and I do it because it’s my way of fulfilling my social contract.
When I’m not holding a brush or a camera, I enjoy playing cello, spending time with family and friends, and grilling! I also work at an art museum. In my spare time I also advocate for equal access to the arts.
In 2023 I was awarded a grant that will allow me study the neurological relationships between color and music. I experience synesthesia, which allows me to hear music in color. This year long study will culminate in a series of 16 paintings, based on my studies.
The series, titled The Color of Music, will be exhibiting in early 2024. Check out my website, davidfallonart.com, for more information!
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Mindfulness, Mindfulness, Mindfulness. 99% of life happens between the poles. It’s not all or nothing, win or lose, black and white. Remember that, otherwise you’ll be missing out.
I once had a conversation with an abstract modern artist. She makes huge paintings filled with lines and colors and all sorts of energy. I asked her, ‘how do you know when you’ve finished a piece?’ She said to me, ‘you have to learn to trust in the process.’
Years later I realized she was talking about living life, not just making art.
Life is a process. When you get discouraged, remember that it’s part of the process. Things will change, things will get better. Life is a mystery, full of laughter and tears and everything in between.
Trust in the process.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
They exposed me to a lot of art at a young age. And they taught me the value of a good education.
Contact Info:
- Website: davidfallonart.com
- Instagram: @stylo_erotique
