We had the good fortune of connecting with Jalil Whitmore and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jalil, how do you think about risk?
Some people aren’t concerned with the possibility of dealing with risk, but how you deal with the outcome of those risks is what shapes your character. Throughout my life/career I have embraced the saying “without risk, there is no reward”. Very early in my career, I decided that now (while in my youth) was the time to start my own business. Most people know how risky owning a business can be and avoid facing the fear of uncertainty. But how will you know what YOU can do if you don’t try? I have been rewarded with so much knowledge and experience that I am now more confident in my skills, which has been invaluable for me.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Whether it’s digital art or traditional art, I try to apply design principles to everything I do. Balance, Contrast, Movement…visual design principles can be used to express different emotions in art. Although everyone has a different perception of what art is, I think a successful artist can find a common thread between groups of people and draw them closer together. Most people don’t usually connect logos or graphic design with art, but I disagree. There is a story behind every piece of art and creating a logo or brand is another opportunity to share a story. One of the biggest challenges I face professionally is balancing the line between art and functionality. It’s not easy telling an artist that something can’t be done because it’s just not enough money in the budget. I’ve learned that time is money and I typically end up gifting more time than what I’m compensated for. My personal brand can be expressed through the work I provide for others. I often spend more time creating for others, than creating for myself. When I’m not developing brand identities or working on 3D concepts, I enjoy craft projects and walks in the park as a way to decompress.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Some of my favorite restaurants are in Midtown Houston and it’s not far from Discovery Green.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My parents have been the greatest supporters of my journey. Whether it’s proof reading, encouragement or financial support, they have been my biggest fans every step of the way.

Website: www.influentmediadesign.com

Instagram: floinfluent

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jalil-whitmore-248ab814

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/influentmediadesign

Image Credits
Urban Rise Photography

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