Daily Inspiration: Meet Ross Victory

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ross Victory.

Hi Ross, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself. 
Growing up in a missionary family, I was instilled with a sense of public service and empathy from a young age. My journey into the creative world began after the loss of my father. This event was a catalyst for me, turning my grief into a narrative that could connect with others through my memoir, “Views From the Cockpit,” which will be 5 years old this year. The process of writing this book was therapeutic and helped me forge a path in the arts, where I could also express and explore my bisexuality and the complexities of human emotion. 

After teaching English in South Korea, I returned to Los Angeles to fully dedicate myself to being an artist and an author. My work primarily focuses on intertwining personal experiences with broader societal themes, particularly advocating for the bisexual community and addressing mental health issues. 

Today, I use my voice to advocate for educational and social issues, including supporting the unhoused in LA. My mission is to use art and advocacy to effect change, promote understanding, and offer a sense of solidarity and hope to those who might feel isolated or misunderstood. Through my writing, music, and public speaking, I strive to do so. 

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?
No, it hasn’t been a smooth road. Some of my key struggles have included dealing with the profound grief, which initially derailed me but eventually inspired my artistic and writing career. Additionally, navigating the complexities of identity as a bi man has presented personal and professional challenges, including facing societal prejudices and finding authentic representation in mainstream media and outlets willing to uplift and highlight my perspective and art. Lastly, establishing a voice in a crowded artistic space while maintaining my unique perspective has been a continual challenge because sometimes the results aren’t as apparent as I’d like. I’ve learned to not take cues from the internet and focus on the love and life around me. Investing in self-care has also been key. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I think I am known for blending my personal experiences, particularly my bisexuality and the emotional landscapes I navigate, into my art, writing, and music. My work in music, often reflecting themes of identity and resilience, complements my literary endeavors. There aren’t many men doing this explicitly in hip-hop, so I’m proud of that! I enjoy all of my creations, but I am most proud of my memoir, “Views From the Cockpit,” which not only deals with personal loss but also serves as a symbol and metaphor for broader reflections on life. Personally, this book signifies a key moment in my life. 

What sets me apart is my commitment to authenticity and vulnerability across all forms of my artistic expression; using these to advocate for my communities and to challenge societal norms, creative expression, and advocacy in both music and literature defines my contribution to the arts and LGBTQ+ discourse at larger. 

Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
So many! Watching airplanes take off and land at LAX. Collecting library cards. Going to Japan on a homestay exchange. Learning to drive at 7! Too many to list. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rossvictory.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/rossvictorious

Image Credits
Paige Sierra