We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Edward Marshun Preston. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Edward Marshun below.
Edward Marshun, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
Throughout my career as an artist, I’ve often found myself as the underdog or the one who stood out for being different. This journey has been defined by resilience, self-discovery, and a refusal to conform to traditional molds. Here’s how I’ve navigated this path:
Embracing My Uniqueness
From the beginning, I realized that my differences were not a disadvantage but a strength. Whether it was my signature white makeup, my experimental sound blending gospel funk with electronic beats, or my bold performances, I leaned into what made me stand out. Instead of trying to fit into existing spaces, I carved out my own lane in the arts and entertainment world.
Overcoming Adversity
My journey has been marked by significant challenges—near-death experiences, battles with mental health, and financial struggles. Yet, these adversities became fuel for my creativity. For example, surviving a fentanyl poisoning during a Houston club event in 2023 pushed me to reclaim my mental health and rebuild my spirit through faith and art.
Hustling as an Artist
Being an underdog meant I had to hustle harder than most. I started by booking my own shows, networking with DJs and artists, and passing out CDs at events like South by Southwest. Moving to New York City forced me to adapt further—flipping clothes, selling art, and using every resource available to survive while honing my craft.
Building a Community
I’ve always believed in the power of collaboration and community. From forming bands to creating cultural movements in Houston’s downtown scene, I surrounded myself with like-minded individuals who shared my vision for pushing boundaries in art and music. Together, we created spaces where we could thrive as “others” who didn’t fit into mainstream molds.
Turning Pain into Purpose
My work reflects the layers of my identity and experiences—growing up in Houston’s Fifth Ward, navigating Black and white spaces, and facing personal trauma. These stories became central to my art, allowing me to connect with audiences on a deeper level while staying true to myself.
Ultimately, being the underdog has been a blessing in disguise. It has taught me resilience, innovation, and the importance of authenticity. My career is proof that success doesn’t come from fitting in—it comes from standing out unapologetically and using your voice to inspire change.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
As a multifaceted artist and author, I am deeply passionate about storytelling and artistic expression. My latest book, “From a Lion’s Den to a Pack of Wolves,” is a personal and philosophical exploration of navigating life’s complexities and embracing one’s true self. This book is special because it offers a blend of inspiration, practical advice, and personal narrative, aiming to empower artists and individuals alike to master the art of influence and shape their own destinies.
What excites me most about this book is its ability to connect with readers on a profound level, encouraging them to become proactive in their lives and treat their creativity as a business enterprise. Through mindful exercises and personal stories, I guide readers to think strategically about their artistic endeavors, focusing on revenue, sustainability, and legacy. The book is dedicated to helping artists unlock their full potential and become leaders in their fields.
Currently, I am focused on engaging audiences with this new work, planning events and collaborations that will further expand my artistic reach. The release of “From a Lion’s Den to a Pack of Wolves” marks a significant milestone in my career, offering readers a unique perspective on resilience, community, and artistic empowerment. I am eager to share this journey with my audience and inspire them to embrace their own creative paths.
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?
Looking back on my journey, I identify three key qualities that have been most impactful: resilience, strategic thinking, and authentic storytelling.
Resilience
has been essential in navigating life’s challenges and maintaining momentum despite setbacks. To develop resilience, I recommend focusing on building a strong support network and learning valuable lessons from failures. This mindset helps in staying motivated and focused on long-term goals.
Strategic Thinking
has allowed me to treat my art as a business enterprise, setting clear goals and strategies for success. I advise early artists to adopt a professional mindset, understanding that their creativity is not just an expression but also a means to build a sustainable career.
Authentic Storytelling
has enabled me to connect deeply with audiences. I encourage artists to stay true to their experiences and emotions, using storytelling as a powerful tool to inspire and engage others. Authenticity in storytelling fosters a genuine connection with the audience and leaves a lasting impact.
For those early in their journey, I suggest embracing these qualities by staying adaptable, seeking mentorship, and continuously honing their craft through practice and self-reflection. By doing so, they can build a strong foundation for their artistic and professional growth.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
As I continue to expand my artistic and literary endeavors, I am excited to collaborate with like-minded creatives who share my passion for storytelling and community building. I am looking to partner with artists, writers, musicians, and innovators who are eager to explore new mediums and push the boundaries of creative expression.
If you’re interested in collaborating, I invite you to reach out through my social media channels or website. Let’s connect and explore how we can inspire and support each other in our artistic journeys. Together, we can create something truly impactful and meaningful. Whether it’s through co-authoring projects, hosting workshops, or creating multimedia experiences, I am open to innovative collaborations that foster growth and connection. Let’s join forces and create something extraordinary!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://dearartistbookshop.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marrshun
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwardmarshunpreston0717
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/marrshun
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