We recently connected with Kenneth P. Garnier and have shared our conversation below.
Kenneth P., so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
My optimism comes from several sources. First, I am an optimistic person; it is a part of my personality. When I look at my childhood photos, one which goes back to when I was only six months old, I almost always see myself smiling. Second, I grew up in a home where there was love, acceptance and inspiration. But even with flaws and all, it was an environment that fostered creativity, positivity and hope. Also, I am constantly in search of optimism, wherever it is. Therefore, I try to shield myself from negative and pessimistic contagions, so I can remain confident, upbeat and productive.
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 musical and visual artist, I am always looking for ways to be expressive, whether it’s through music, writing, drawing, or some other medium. Currently, my primary focus is on Churchman, a sci-fi character who is a transmogrification of myself. The Churchman brand includes a concept album, Churchman by Akouo (2019); a children’s book, the Churchman Children’s Art & Amusement Book, with author/illustrator Chris Fulton (2021); a comic strip, Churchman & Kape-able Kidz (2022 – present); and associated merchandise. Under way is an animated music video, digital comic book series, and movie. Providing oversight to these endeavors through my company, Pineal Records, Books & Films, is challenging at times, but also rewarding.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Essential qualities of my journey were, and are, patience, persistence, and hard work. These three, which, even as a youngster, I saw exhibited among some in my neighborhood, have positively influenced my relationships and vocation. For any in the nonage of their journey, developing and improving in these areas requires time. This, by the way, is true of acquiring all good attributes. Look deep within yourself to discover why you are here on this planet; you are not a purposeless person. Spend time reading the biographies of successful people. Set goals that are measurable, but also attainable. Learn valuable lessons from your own experiences, whether good or bad. Never relinquish your dreams.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
My parents did many meaningful things for me; the most endearing and enduring was teaching me to believe in myself. Sure, I went through episodes of venturing away from that belief, but their caring counsel and exemplary example would always bring me back to the safe, sound and sensible self-awareness and self-affirmation that have sustained me to this day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.akouomusic.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennethpgarnier/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iamakouo/
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-p-garnier-88997b15
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/akouomusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/akouomusic
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/pineal-minneapolis
- SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/kenneth-p-garnier
- Other: https://www.iamchurchman.com/ https://www.pineal.biz/
Image Credits
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