Today we’d like to introduce you to Armani Dae
Hi Armani, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My story… well since i was born (1989) in Philly, PA i can remember always using art as my creative outlet and way of communication. I sang as a kid, i played the violin, i loved to act all while still being very shy and being very much an Omnivert (for me, very social but also very shy). I’ve always stood out even when not trying. People always gravitate toward me. I was always that person at the party that people thought was mysterious but also would ask me to take their picture. So, in 2009, while working on my associates degree I started charging people for portraits and house parties. I would show up to parties with some fabric that acted as a backdrop, my mini printer, my camera and got to work. There were times when I’d show up with $15 in my pocket and leave with almost $500.
In 2010, i began shooting weddings, baby showers, etc. All of my art started with music , as i mentioned but photography is what i am most known for and what really launched my brand “ArmaniDae” (formerly “ArmaniDae Photography”). As the years progressed i dove into other art forms such as acting, writing books, paintings, fashion, and more.
I have traveled many states and a few countries, doing what I love, creating art and sharing it with the world. It’s not always been an easy road (still isnt) but as long as i do what feels good to me thats what matters. Fast forward present day i am now an Award winning creator, I received a state proclamation, an award for my voice and community work, an emerging designer award , amongst a few others. Who knows whats next.
I am an all around creator, creating art is my therapy. Without Art I’m nothing, literally. Art is life!
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?
Absolutely NOT, ha ha. No, but really it hasn’t been nor is ever a smooth road. Almost everyday there is an obstacle big or small. The key is to listen to your body (trust your gut), believe in yourself and push through as best you can at your own pace. Be present in the moments, explore and reflect as you push forward.
Some of the struggles I have dealt with along the way are: being patient, getting funding and or support (sales, people attending events, accessible spaces), not meeting qualifications when applying for grants because my art isn’t “traditional”. People not understanding my work especially when it’s related to queer and or black issues. Last minute cancellations by models on the day of show. I could go on and on. But i always push through.
Currently – my business has taken a major hit due to the fires in Los Angeles, the terrible harm Trump and his administration are causing for queer people, especially trans. And just being a black man every day in America. So if you see me, see us out here doing what we do please support. Every Share, Repost, Donation, Purchase, word of mouth MAKES THE WORLD A DIFFERENCE!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As mentioned I am an all around creator. I turned my love for art into a business “ArmaniDae” LLC. ArmaniDae specializes in Photography, Paintings, Books, Events, Fashion, Consulting. I Myself am most known for photography, Books and Fashion. The business is most known for Events, Fashion and Photography.
I am most proud of EVERYTHING that I do as a person and as a business owner. I strive to do better each day. I learn and grow non stop. Good or bad each experience is a step high and closer to achieving all goals i have set out to reach. To have won awards and or received acknowledgments just makes it even greater. Each sale or paid opportunity is a big part of what makes it worthwhile because people don’t have to support my work they choose to.
What sets me apart from others, is firstly my name. There is no other Armani Dae (last I checked) I am “1 of 1” as Beyoncé said! Second, there is no one that has my exact passion, vision, way of love, way of Communication. My art isn’t usually understood which tells me i am truly different than others. (We are all unique in our own way).
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
To work collaborate/work with me people can hit me up via:
– EMAIL – ArmaniDae1@gmail,com
– INSTAGRAM – @ArmaniDaePhotography & @ArmaniDae
To support me, people can:
– SHOP my Art (fashion, photography, paintings, books)
– BOOK me for Events, Panels, Poetry readings, LGBTQ+ Consulting/Trainings, Organizing, Talent management, etc.
again via Email or by going to ArmaniDae.com to the Contact page and fill out the form.
I wanted to note that when people support my art, they in-turn support other creatives; When i am funded or given space to showcase my art, I make sure to give back by amplifying others voices, sharing that space and giving opportunities to them.
Image Credits
Photo Credits:
1. @willa.camera
2. @xpozdphotography
3. @translatinacoalition
4. @EbonyLenses
5.
6.
7. @ArmaniDaePhotography
8. Maury Phillips
