Today we’d like to introduce you to Cierra Black.
Hi Cierra, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up, I always had a very active imagination; I loved writing stories, putting on fake talk shows or creating commercials for things lying around the house, and I loved to spend most of my time reading. I loved getting lost in the fantasy worlds I would create for myself! Throughout schooling, I always participated in essay contests and took on many different creative projects and classes as well. Writing was always something I loved to do and that I felt I was good at, but I was hesitant on taking it seriously as a career. Coming from the IE, I got to UCLA in 2016, originally focusing on political science and public health, and ended up falling in love with all things related to Black art. I could never decide which of my passions I wanted to follow more, so in college I decided to explore a little bit of them all–which led me to the conclusion that I never want to settle for just one. I love writing, research, art in all forms, education, and advocacy; I love creating beautiful things and seeing how every single part comes together to make something beautifully important. I want to and will pursue meaningful work and experiences in all of these areas. After taking two classes in particular on Black film and Black artistic expression I knew how I would bring all of my passions together. My goal is to be a Black storyteller that intentionally captures the beauty and power of Black life, amplifying Black stories in accurate and authentic ways. I want to create art that reshapes and uplifts narratives and moves people to new, more inclusive ways of thinking whether that be through writing, visuals, or any other medium.
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?
I would say the biggest obstacle or challenge is staying consistent and believing in your craft. Imposter syndrome for marginalized groups, especially for Black women like myself, can really intimidate us from pushing forward. I know I personally can get into my head too much at times–overanalyzing my work or feeling like I have to be ten times better to be noticed. What encourages me to move forward is understanding that there is something out there for everyone. My work is meaningful, intentional, and important and it will resonate with the people it is intended to. As long as we as marginalized creatives continue to intentionally create the work that inspires us and others, that’s all that matters.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
My current focus is on community engagement, freelance writing, and creative collaborations. Although writing is my primary medium, I don’t want to limit myself to just one. I also have extensive experience in event production, project management, and am gaining experience in creative direction and other forms of production. My goal is to gain experience in as many components of the creative process as possible and build up my creative portfolio. Earlier this year I decided to challenge myself by rolling out three articles for a Visual Journal Series on both my social media and personal blog, combining my interests for writing, modeling, and creative direction with the help of several of my creative friends. I am now focusing on an internship I have with LA Style Magazine, where I’m learning about the inner workings of a large publication. I’m very excited for the opportunities that will come after this meaningful experience, and to continue my journal series on my blog.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
What I’ve gathered so far from a lot of writers in various creative avenues is that when it’s your time, it’s your time! (Which is why it’s so important to always be ready for when that happens.) Of course, the work and talent need to speak for themselves, but I notice a big component to creative success is the right place, right time, right people. So many people have told me that their big break or ideal job came from everything aligning just right and I believe that with the right material, consistency, and faith in myself, I will get there too. You never know who you could come across that would be amazing to collaborate with, learn from, or work with so I think it’s equally important to be your honest authentic self and prioritize genuine connections.
Contact Info:
- Email: cierramblack3@gmail.com
- Website: https://medium.com/@cierramblack3
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cierrablack_/
Photographed & creative directed by Meché Evonne (instagram: @meche.evonne)
photographed by Brandon Towns (instagram: @btaesthetics_)
Me with Angela Davis
Creative directed by myself and photographed by Tierra Thomas (instagram: @tierra_smiles)
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