April 23rd 2024.
Nikkolas Smith is a remarkable individual, with a unique combination of skills and passions. He is an engineer, an artist, and a businessman. But beyond that, he is also an artivist - a term he coined to describe his role as both an activist and an artist. And with his talents, he has been able to make a significant impact in the world.
As an artivist, Nikkolas has been a witness to some of the most pressing issues of our time - the fight for democracy, the Palestinian genocide, and police brutality. Through his work, he has experienced the exhaustion and defeat that often accompanies these struggles. But he has also found a way to balance these dark realities with a glimmer of hope and light - through art.
Art, in all its forms, has the power to soothe and heal. It is a balm for the harsh mental wounds caused by societal woes. And for Nikkolas, it is also a means of expressing his displeasure at the injustices he has witnessed. Whether it is through music, television, books, or any other medium, art has become his outlet for activism.
But beyond personal expression and activism, Nikkolas has also found commercial success in his art. He has designed famous Disney structures, created murals, illustrated children's books, designed movie posters, and even launched his own clothing line. His work has not only brought him joy and fulfillment, but it has also allowed him to make a positive impact on the world.
During his time at the Disney Dreamers Academy, Nikkolas had the opportunity to mentor 100 young individuals. Drawing from his personal experience, he emphasized the importance of dedication to one's craft, consistency, and profit, all while maintaining integrity in artivism. These values have been the driving force behind his own success.
Nikkolas' creative journey began after he graduated from Hampton University with an engineering degree. He started his career as a Disney Imagineer, using his technical skills and hard-earned degree in a fulfilling way. But he never lost sight of his passion for art. In fact, he used his spare time to sharpen his skills and gain exposure through an Instagram sketch series.
One of his sketches caught the eye of a family friend, and that was the beginning of Nikkolas' independent artivism journey. It was a picture book cover of Simone Biles, and it gained widespread attention on social media. Thanks to this exposure, Barnes & Noble approached him to turn it into a picture book - a task he completed in just three weeks. This opportunity opened doors for Nikkolas, and he has since illustrated over 10 children's books, including I am Ruby Bridges, Artivist, and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever: The Courage to Dream.
Nikkolas credits his consistency and fearlessness in sharing his art with the public for this success. He also acknowledges the role his wife, Vanessa Crocini, has played in his journey. She has been the brains behind his business acumen - something he lacked at the beginning of his career.
Thanks to his talent and his wife's guidance, Nikkolas has been able to use his art to heal the broken bones of the world. His mission is two-fold - to educate and entertain. And through his work, he has been able to bring awareness to important issues, such as the struggles in Palestine. His compassion and dedication to his art and activism are truly inspiring.
When asked if he is afraid that his activism may hinder his commercial opportunities, Nikkolas remains resolute. He says, "It is what it is. I'm not going to stop doing it. I will stand with those who stand for justice for all." And with this mindset, he continues to use his talents to make a positive impact in the world.
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