By: Justin Williams
Life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs, altering the course we had meticulously planned. There’s no telling what tomorrow may bring, and yesterday does not exist. All that's there is the here and now which is constantly changing.
Just a few months ago, I was eagerly preparing for my transition to Seoul, South Korea, excited about the new adventurous, business, and educational opportunities that awaited me. However, as fate would have it, unforeseen circumstances led me to reconsider my plans. Today, I invite you to join me on this journey of resilience and adaptation as I share my change of plans and the decision to establish my studio in the vibrant city of Baltimore, Maryland.
Embracing change, and making sure its stable:
" Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”
- James Baldwin
Change can be intimidating, especially when it derails our carefully crafted plans. That’s basically what my early to mid twenties has been and continues to be, it’s an amazing and adventurous chapter of trial and error. Initially, I was disheartened by the obstacles that prevented my move to Korea, I had many touching ideas I indulged in while fantasizing about escaping America's grip. However,I know I will get there, but there is no direct path, and definitely no instructions on how to get there.
I quickly realized that life's detours often lead us to unexpected discoveries and opportunities. While this set back has been challenging, I fully embrace the test of my character that I’ve spent the last couple of years honing while in the healing process, Delaware was the perfect environment for that chapter. Instead of dwelling on what could have been, I choose to embrace the change and see it as a chance for growth and reinvention. And I am so thankful for everyone that has supported my writing, art, photography, and business endeavors along the way!
Rediscovering Baltimore's Charm:
Beat-up little seagull
On a marble stair
Tryin' to find the ocean
Lookin' everywhere
Ain't nowhere to run to
There ain't nothin' here for free
Hooker on the corner
Waiting for a train
Drunk lying on the sidewalk
Sleeping in the rain
'Cause the city's dyin'
And they don't know why
Oh, Baltimore
Ain't it hard just to live?
- Nina Simone
There’s no other city like Baltimore, it's a great city for a fresh start in rebuilding Taino Studios. With its rich black & latino history, vibrant art scene, diverse community, and need for social programming , it quickly captured my heart again since moving back from Delaware for University and to learn the art of business. The city's warm and electric energy, paired with its artistic spirit resonated with me, igniting a renewed sense of inspiration for Taino Studios, and its capacity to benefit a neighborhood or even an entire city, with its book and art products, community events, and social justice programs.
From the charming coffee shops- one in which I’m a manager now, lining the cobblestone streets to the captivating art galleries showcasing local talent, Baltimore became my new canvas for creativity
I feel like a kid again, my curiosity has peaked. I could go back to Delaware, open up the shop again, go back to teaching, and get my masters at my alma mater…but somewhere deep down inside that feels like failure of the soul. Many see that pipeline of getting a better job, a higher salary, and a more comfortable life as growth- but life has truly taught me that true growth is unseen, and that its absolutely fascinating to me in this seemingly new city. Life has so much wisdom, it's like an eternal bookstore that can be quite crude at times.
Exploring Local Coffee Culture & finding a tribe :
So, here’s the truth, in this create unapologetically blog…I’m being selfish by telling you this decision to stay in Baltimore and not to reopen another studio back in Delaware. I can only hope you understand my desire for new opportunities. For me, coffee, books, and art has always been companions in moments of contemplation and creativity, they are safe spaces to simply be.
Others who live a lifestyle that rears them into the doors of a cozy cafe also seem to share similar values as me. From the sea of people, both good and bad, there’s something comforting about being around a group of people in a room whose air is tinct with the rich aroma of coffee beans.
As I settle into Baltimore, I am embarking on a quest to discover others who share values similar to mine, hopefully I will get the opportunity to find a tribe- my people, a group or even an individual that is worth taking responsibility for as a man, lifting the burden of forgiveness, and making a mindful effort in investing time, energy, and resources into the relationship. I truly hope that this tribe loves to travel because after the failed move to South Korea, my passport is ready to go!
Finding a New Studio Space for my practice:
While it is true that we are products of our environment, it is also true that our environments are products of us and a peace of mind is typically top priority. A studio is an artist's sanctuary—a space where ideas come to life and imagination knows no bounds. With my relocation to Baltimore, the search for a new studio became an exciting endeavor.
Exploring different neighborhoods, touring art districts, and connecting with local art communities allowed me to discover hidden gems and envision a space that would foster creativity and collaboration. I eagerly anticipate the day when I can open the doors to my new studio, where I can continue to create and inspire. And when that day happens, get your calendars ready for an open house that will be a night to remember.
There’s two main creative projects that I’m very excited to launch in the mediums of fine art and photography. I still continue to add onto my current large scale body of work called Peurum Nigrum Run Curro- a series that focuses on the effects capitalism has on the soul. The other project being, the duality of black and white which explore the various challenging emotional dichotomies that arise in our lives.
The Power of Adaptability:
The first thing I do in the morning after my physical self care routine is open up my leather journal, and write its task for today's page. What can I do every day that I can get better at by 1%? What do I want, Who do I want to be? Life has a way of teaching us valuable lessons, and this unexpected detour has reminded me of the power of adaptability. In the face of adversity, we have the opportunity to reinvent ourselves, to grow stronger, and to embrace new possibilities.
While my plans may have changed, my determination to pursue my artistic journey remains unwavering. Baltimore has welcomed me with open arms, and I am ready to embrace this new chapter of my creative life.
When the focus is on oneself, productivity is no longer a mask for procrastination. The work that’s being done is scary and challenging because change, whether internal or external is inherently scary-but the work matters or else cycles will continue to repeat.
I used to keep myself busy in the shop that I forgot to dream big- I also forgot my initial why. Which was to build a business that not only delivered quality services and products for the sake of art and creativity, but one that helped and guided those who were seeking and marginalized. Oh, I loved my old studio space and achieving my goals I would set daily, weekly, and monthly.
But what's the point of earning money and achieving it if it's not making the world a better place?
So, my focus has gone back to rediscovering my way through journaling and self reflection. Some of the prompts i've used in order to grow my sense of adaptability were:
Reflect on a recent situation where you had to adapt to unexpected changes. What emotions did you experience? How did you handle the situation? What did you learn about yourself and your ability to adapt?
Write about a time when you faced resistance to change. What were the reasons behind your resistance? How did you eventually overcome it? What strategies can you apply in the future to embrace change more readily?
Think about a challenging transition or new experience you've had in the past. How did you adapt to the new circumstances? What skills, strengths, or resources did you tap into? How did your adaptability contribute to your overall growth and success?
Describe a situation where you witnessed someone else displaying remarkable adaptability. What qualities or approaches did they demonstrate? How can you incorporate some of those attributes into your own life?
Imagine yourself in a future scenario where you're faced with a significant change or challenge. How would you ideally approach it with adaptability? What mindset, skills, or strategies would you employ to navigate the situation successfully?
Write a letter to your future self, emphasizing the importance of adaptability. What advice or reminders would you offer yourself to embrace change more readily and navigate unknown circumstances with resilience and flexibility?
Reflect on a time when your initial plans or expectations didn't unfold as anticipated. How did you adapt to the new circumstances? What positive outcomes or opportunities emerged as a result of your flexibility and openness to change?
So now we are here-let’s make the most of it
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