Today we’d like to introduce you to Jordy Bel.
Hi Jordy, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was born and raised in the cultural conglomeration that is Memphis. I am an actor, visual artist, actor combatant, ASL learner, plant parent, and dog lover.
My grandmother always took me to see Peter Pan at Playhouse on the Square when I was a child, and I fell in love with the story and the magic. Peter Pan has always been my favorite story, so I clung to the idea of never growing up and prioritizing joy.
Through this experience, I learned that I wanted to be an actor and a visual artist. In May, I will receive my BFA in performance and a minor in dance from the University of Memphis.
I will be appearing in “The Moors” at New Moon Theatre Company in May and “Something Rotten!” at Playhouse on the Square in August-Septemberwhie running my small business, Art by Jordy Bel. This business features handmade jewelry, apparel, original art, prints, and stickers with joyful and whimsical themes that reflect my optimistic outlook on life.
I believe that compassion and empathy can rule the world if we choose to pick up these weapons of love.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My art teacher in high school was a woman of high expectations and excellent skill, which naturally pushed my perfectionistic personality past the point of comfortability. The place just beyond comfortability is where the true art lies. I learned to better my time management and how to reach out for opportunities.
The tough part is that no one necessarily “needs” art, especially considering the economic standings of the nation amid Covid, war, and inflation. Why do we continue to make it? Why do people continue to buy it? That is a wonderful, beautiful question, my friend. People engage in art as a reflection of themselves and their experiences in this chaotic life. People cannot live without art.
It is an innate need to express oneself that drives us. Nevertheless, it has been difficult getting my business off the ground, as it is the slow season for artists (a lack of big spending holidays). This has been a struggle but never once has it stopped me. There are thousands of people who do what I do, but I know that I have just as much of a right to create, love, and share as anyone else.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am primarily a painter and digital designer, but I am an extremely flexible artist. I often get bored of routine, so I will take on nearly any project, medium, or style that I am presented with.
I have painted hyper-realistic works for companies such as Memphis Title Company, Garibaldi’s Pizza, and Avenue Coffee, which feature iconic Memphis locations. Some days I feel compelled to create retro sticker or t-shirt designs, which typically include positive sayings and whimsical scenes.
On other days, I will sit at a desk for hours, molding clay into handmade earrings of all styles. I also work with resin, creating geode wall art, coasters, trays, and much more. I love art because it thrives on flexibility, uniqueness, and the ability to NOT be consistent.
I am well known for my ability to take on any project, regardless of size, style, or occasion, with fierce joy.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts, or blogs that help you do your best?
I use Wix, Quickbooks, Avalara, and Rollo Ship Manager for business purposes.
However, I simply could not function without Spotify.
There is no feeling greater than walking into my brightly-lit studio with yellow painted walls and a neon “Love” sign, putting on some disco or alternative tunes, and creating without restraint.
Contact Info:
- Email: artbyjordy@gmail.com
- Website: jordybel.com
- Instagram: www.instagram/artbyjordybel
Image Credits
R.J. Lewis
