Today we’d like to introduce you to Jordan Christopher. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Jordan Christopher is a creative architect and visual artist whose talents traverse a range of mediums, including oil and digital art. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, and currently residing in Long Beach, California, Jordan’s artistic journey began in grade school and continued as a student at Howard University, where he discovered a deep passion for the arts, education, and advocacy.
Jordan’s work is not just about creating beautiful pieces but also about advocacy and storytelling. His canvases reflect the intersection of humanity, from celebrating HBCU culture to honoring the strength of Black women. His art must be personal, purposeful, and meaningful, centered around the phrase “Beauty Amongst the Thorns.”
This phrase is inspired by Jordan’s medically-fragile brother, Evan, who has chromosome 1 deletion. Through Evan’s experiences, Jordan learned to find beauty in what others perceive as a thorn. With his art, Jordan hopes to tell diverse and powerful stories about those who are differently-abled, showcasing the beauty in mental health, vitiligo, limb differences, and other differences that society often perceives as flaws.
Through his work, Jordan highlights the beauty that exists in every individual and reminds us all that those who are differently-abled are still able. He sees it as his duty and privilege to create a space on the canvas for these beautiful and purposeful stories, and he hopes that viewers can appreciate the power and beauty in his art.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It has definitely been a difficult journey getting to where I am at today. I struggled with finding a full-time role in the industry from having to paint inside my car. But I always remain positive and I don’t like to dwell on the limitations and setbacks. I embrace them and I move forward.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I create powerful narratives of differently-abled people centered around the phrase “Beauty amongst the thorns”.
We live in a time where people are still ignorant of the neurodivergent and special needs community. I have a medically fragile brother, Evan, and with his experiences, I capture thot-provoking portraiture art to highlight the beauty these people have internally to externally.
What I am most proud of right now? I recently just had my debut exhibition for the Los Angeles Lakers In the Paint and it was a life-changing event. With this event, I was able to get commissioned for other projects, and I have a solo show coming up at a notable gallery soon.
My story sets me apart from others honestly. We all have a different path and a different upbringing and it’s our job to never hide that because the journey is important.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I am a dancer as well. I don’t often show that side of me but the people who have seen me in action know how I get down.
Contact Info:
- Website: jeauxii.org
- Instagram: @jochrxs
