Today we’d like to introduce you to Vernon Adams.
Hi Vernon, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Art has always been a part of who I am. Growing up in the Mississippi Delta, creativity was my way of expressing the things I couldn’t quite put into words. Even though Memphis isn’t my native home, it’s a city that holds a big part of my heart. It’s where I’ve experienced both challenges and victories, and it’s also where my art career truly began to take shape.
Things really started moving in 2007 when several of my major works found homes around Memphis. One that means a lot to me is “Gladiolus in the Valley,” a piece honoring Sr. Thea Bowman that resides at Sr. Thea Bowman Montessori and St. Augustine Catholic Church. Another highlight is my tribute to Aretha Franklin, which now lives in the offices of the Orpheum Theatre. Also the mural works that I was honored to create through Paint Memphis.
Along the way, I had the incredible opportunity to be mentored by seasoned professional artist Chuck Johnson. His guidance helped shape not only my technique but also my understanding of how art can tell stories, uplift communities, and preserve culture.
Just as I was mentored, I’ve made it a priority to give back. I’ve had the joy of mentoring young artists at Kirby Middle School, encouraging them to find their own voices through art. I’ve also had the privilege of mentoring adult creatives, including internationally published Vogue high fashion model and creative director Teanna Gilliam, helping her further explore her artistic vision beyond the camera.
Watching the growth of every artist I work with — whether a student discovering color for the first time or a professional refining their creative voice — reminds me why I do what I do: to inspire, to connect, and to keep the spirit of community alive through art.
Every piece I create carries a piece of my journey — from the Delta to Memphis and beyond. My goal is to keep building bridges through creativity, opening doors for others, and letting each new work tell a story that moves us all forward.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has definitely not been a smooth one. I lost three of my closest and most creatively influential friends in three consecutive years from suicide, gun violence, and kidnapping- in which we still don’t know the whereabouts of my protégé, Lopaz Richardson. Tyler Perry even executive produced a docuseries titled “Never Seen Again Episode: Winning Season” that sheds light on the situation. It took me a little over a year to try to function normally after that.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My works are a reflection of resilience, heritage, and displays the rich vibrancy of African and American culture. Each of my pieces tells a story. I tend to invite my viewers to connect with the emotional depth and cultural significance within my works. I am proud of my work that was purchased by Villanova University. It was a sign that lets me know even more that my passion and dedication to my creativity has value to others beyond myself.
What does success mean to you?
To me success is just waking up everyday to be able to take another breath and knowing that my Creator created me to create as well as inspire others. Whether it’s spiritually, mentally, or physically- I don’t take my abilities for granted.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vadamsarts.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vadamsarts?igsh=Z3p5ZWhwYnpiZG56&utm_source=qr
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@vadamsarts?si=IUuzpSdsrRwA_i86
