Meet Hyperius Blake

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Hyperius Blake. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Hyperius below.

Hyperius, 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?
Navigating situations where I am the only one in the room who looks like me has been both a challenge and a unique opportunity for growth. In those moments, I’ve learned to harness the power of my uniqueness and transform it into a strength that propels me forward.

Being the odd one out has given me a distinctive perspective and a diverse range of experiences that set me apart. It has sharpened my ability to adapt, empathize, and connect with people from various backgrounds. As a result, I’ve developed a deep well of skills and knowledge that no one else possesses, granting my opinions a special weight and influence.

Instead of allowing the discomfort of being the only one like me to hold me back, I have chosen to embrace it as a source of power. It’s a testament to my resilience and determination that I not only survive in such situations but thrive in them. This strength stems from recognizing that I am a trailblazer, forging paths that others may later follow.

In those moments of isolation, I’ve discovered the true meaning of self-confidence. The ability to stand alone, armed with my unique blend of attributes, has given me the courage to voice my opinions and ideas without hesitation. I’ve come to understand that my perspective is invaluable and has the potential to reshape conversations, inspire innovation, and drive positive change.

Remember, the world benefits from diversity in thought and appearance. Embracing who you are, even when you stand alone, sets a precedent for others to do the same. Your journey becomes an inspiration, not only for those who share your background but for everyone who values the power of individuality.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
At the heart of my professional pursuits is a deep passion for community and art, which has led me to establish a thriving platform called Creation. This festival holds a profound goal: to blend diverse creative scenes and carve out spaces where marginalized artists can not only flourish but also gain the recognition they truly deserve. Creation is a celebration of artistic expression, diversity, and inclusivity, serving as a catalyst for positive change in the creative world.

One of the most exhilarating aspects of Creation is its power to bring together artists from all walks of life, allowing them to collaborate, share their stories, and showcase their talents to a broader audience. This festival isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about fostering healing, unity, and the unapologetic joy that serves as a form of resistance against adversity. I’m actually in the process of planning my next event, Creation 4.5: Joy! If interested, you can follow those updates on Instagram @creation.216

Simultaneously, I’m channeling my creative energy into the Hyperius Blake Sound Experiment, a project that is incredibly close to my heart. I’m crafting an EP set to drop in December 2023 or early 2024. This musical journey is a reflection of my commitment to pushing the boundaries of sound, blending intricate arrangements and emotional depth to create a listening experience that resonates on a profound level.

In the midst of all this, I’m embarking on a new adventure: learning the art of DJing. My dedication to honing this craft is evident in the mixes I’m curating, each aimed at enhancing my skills and bringing me closer to my official DJ debut. It’s a thrilling path of growth and exploration, and I can’t wait to share my tastes with the world.

The essence of my brand is rooted in healing, community, and joy as forms of resistance. I hold a strong belief in the power of music to not only uplift spirit but also to connect people across cultures. My ultimate mission is to amplify and celebrate Black Music as the pinnacle of high art, infusing it with orchestral brilliance and intricate musical concepts to create a sonic journey that evokes emotion and ignites passion.

As I move forward, my aspirations remain anchored in cultivating a space where the spirit of the Diaspora intertwines seamlessly with innovation, creating a new wave of music that resonates with hearts and minds alike, and encourages conversations and reflection on how we can thrive, no matter what adversities we face.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
One of the most transformative aspects of my journey was my willingness to engage with people from all walks of life. Interacting with individuals who have different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives has broadened my horizons and enriched my understanding of the world. My advice is to approach these interactions with an open mind and a genuine curiosity. Listen actively, seek to understand, and recognize that every encounter is an opportunity for growth. Learning from others will not only expand your knowledge but also nurture empathy and open the door to unexpected collaborations.

My interest in non-Western cultures and ideals has added depth and nuance to my journey. Exploring diverse cultures, traditions, and worldviews has allowed me to incorporate a broader range of influences into my work. To those just starting out, I recommend immersing yourself in learning about cultures beyond your own. Study their art, music, literature, and history. Engaging with different cultural perspectives not only enhances your creativity but also fosters cross-cultural connections that can inspire fresh ideas and innovative solutions.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of managing ego. While a healthy level of self-confidence is essential, unchecked ego can hinder growth and lead to actions driven by fear rather than love. My advice is to cultivate emotional intelligence, which involves self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to manage your emotions effectively. Regular introspection and mindfulness practices can help you navigate your ego, ensuring that your decisions and actions align with your genuine intentions and values.

To those setting out on their own paths, I encourage you to approach every interaction as a chance to learn, explore different cultural perspectives to broaden your creative horizons, and nurture your emotional intelligence to act from a place of love rather than fear. Remember, your journey is not just about achieving goals, but about the continuous growth and evolution of yourself as a person, and loving your life.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I’m always down to connect and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share a passion for creating meaningful and impactful art that pushes boundaries and drives positive change. If you’re reading this and resonate with my vision, I’d love to hear from you!

I’m seeking collaborators who are driven by a deep desire to go beyond the ordinary, challenge established norms, and break free from tradition. If you’re an artist, musician, writer, designer, or creative thinker who believes in the power of art as a force for healing and societal transformation, I’m excited to explore the possibilities of working together.

Collaboration can take many forms, from joint projects that fuse diverse artistic disciplines to ventures that use our combined creativity to address pressing social issues. If you’re someone who’s passionate about creating art that resonates on a profound level and sparks conversations that matter, then you’re the kind of person I want to connect with.

To get in touch and explore potential collaborations, you can reach out to me through my social media channels, preferably Instagram!

Contact Info:

Image Credits
Aja Joi (photographer) Tessa LeBaron (artwork)

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