In this edition of our “Artist Spotlight” series we showcase Shamayam Sullivan (CFA’23), creative director of Charcoal.
Tell us about yourself.
I’m a sophomore in the College of Fine Arts majoring in painting and art education. I’m originally from Oakland, CA but I’ve spent the last few years in Atlanta, GA.
What’s your Charcoal story?
I first heard of Charcoal before coming to BU through Erin Edwards (COM’21) and Archelle Thelemaque (COM’21). I saw the previous Charcoal issue “Mirrors” and was instantly captivated. The intimacy of each of the shots and craftsmanship put into the magazine blew me away. From then on I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of once on campus.
What I love most about Charcoal is the creative team. As an artist I’m most comfortable around other artists. So being around like minded individuals who can absorb and combat my suggestions with even crazier ones is perfect. Even as a model I was able to give a pitch and propose a photoshoot idea which was later chosen for an upcoming issue. Now as creative director I’m grateful for the openness and support given my previous year which pushed me to apply for the position I have now.
As a publication that celebrates and highlights the voices of people of color, Charcoal goes above and beyond to hear what each person has to say. There isn’t simply one voice which represents Charcoal, it’s reflective of everyone who has ever shared their perspective.
Describe your art.
In Charcoal’s online issue “Ennui,” I submitted a few pieces from a series of album recreations I was making at the time. I wanted to stay true to my art form of creating self portraits while highlighting some of my favorite artists and albums that were helping me through Covid-19 isolation. I love the Frida Kahlo quote, “I paint self-portraits because I am so often alone, because I am the person I know best.” It articulately conveys my artistic direction as well as what each of us have been going through these last few months.
