THE MUSEUM OF LIGHT: Artists as Alchemists: Just as an alchemist transforms led into gold, do you feel that being an artist relates to that of being an alchemist? Do you view the artist journey and your creative expression, as alchemy?
DENAUN: I would have to say we are that in a way. But all of the art we create is only gold to us. People today are experts (sarcastically speaking of course). Not even for good reason but because they want to comment and have their moment even if it is just to start an argument. So when we put something out these days we are afraid of having those ideas aborted. The art of alchemy today would have people testing your gold's quality instead of them seeing it as a great accomplishment.
THE MUSEUM OF LIGHT: The Evidence of the Journey: Artists are often labeled as "stars.” Just as a star radiates light and the planets then reflect this light, do you see your work as an artist like that of a star? Is this "light" that stars radiate merely the evidence of this journey of becoming a star/learning to radiate light?
DENAUN: Yes because I'm trying to guide people with my music. Either to bring light to a subject or make them think of a subject in a more logical way and not just judging books by covers. Eventually we will navigate amongst the stars and just like we used them to find our place on the earth we would use then to travel to the next planet like signs. The more energy we put into trying to guide or bring attention to social issues. We will shine brighter. Some stars won't, and some stars burn out. The hardest thing to do is keep using energy to stay illuminated.
THE MUSEUM OF LIGHT: The Courage to Create: When an artist is not "creating" it is often labeled a "creative block." How do you navigate this space, how do you find the creative spark in the dark, and does it require courage to create from this unknown space? Describe this process.
DENAUN: I remove myself from the studio. I don't belong there if I'm not contributing or giving or learning. I play the piano and instantly become inspired so the blocks are a little less these days. It's not a lot of drama to make me frustrated so I'm always creating. If I don't feel like being in the studio, I play piano and record voice notes in my phone so when I do feel the desire to be inside her again I'm there with purpose not just for pleasure.
You can find this story and others from The Museum of Light at RESPECT Magazine.
The Museum of Light is curated by: Billy Johnson Jr., Adell Henderson, Joslyn Rose Lyons, Rafael Casal, Matt Smith, Malik Buie.
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