Hello artists, and welcome back to another artist feature. This week, we are featuring Brianna Zhao. Before we get into the interview questions, let's first introduce you all to her.
Brianna is an avid activist who also loves music, surfing, and environmentalism. When she is not writing or creating poetry, she loves to teach topics in conservation and language to younger students growing along the way! She hopes to leave a positive mark on the world through her pursuits.
1. How did you first get into music, art, and spoken word?
Since a young age, I have been immersed in a creative literary atmosphere whether it be at home, school, or elsewhere. I have always enjoyed writing fiction and poetry, and have bought poetry books since I was little. Now, I have transformed my passion for writing into an endeavor for social and environmental advocacy, as I use my voice to speak about pressing issues present in our modern society.
2. Who or what are your biggest inspirations that motivate you to create art or write music?
My biggest inspirations would be all of the lost artists out there, however unconventional that may sound. I have walked past intricate street murals, read unreasonably banned books, and have heard speeches from those whose voices haven't been heard enough. The combination of diverse artists within our world and their courage in using their skills to create something bigger and more meaningful than themself is what inspires me to do the same with the abilities I have been given.
3. How do you plan on using your art and music to spread awareness or make a difference in the world?
I plan to use my voice through writing and art to raise awareness for marginalized communities facing hardships that are largely ignored in society. I will be donating most of my artist commissions to social relief organizations and want to focus my efforts to shed light on such problems such as unethical labor, poverty, and more. Through storytelling, I hope to bring more attention to the real problems people are suffering from.
4. What is your favorite piece of poetry that you have written so far?
I am proud of the piece I have submitted and think it is a concise but creative way to convey the feeling of desolation and misery that troubles those in forced labor, sparking a compassion for readers to comprehend the negative effects of subpar working conditions present in our world.
5. What are your current or future goals with your art, music, and spoken word?
I only hope to continue to use my voice for the betterment of others and have a goal of improving my own skill set to learn more about myself as an artist. I want to try new writing techniques, refine my innovation, and push my limits outside the box.
6. If you had the opportunity to spend a day with your favorite artist or musician, who would it be and why?
I would spend the day with Lana Del Rey, because she is a lyricist that speaks to me on a personal level, and I would love to know more about her creative process and how she utilizes a powerful tool of conveying a deep emotion in a multitude of people.
7. Do you have any advice or tips for people that are interested in music and art?
There will be people who judge you, undermine you, or tell you you can't, but you can. Believe in yourself and don't be afraid to put your heart and soul into your work, especially when you're trying to make an impact through it. We've only got one chance at this life, so let's make it a meaningful one filled with what we love to do. Stop waiting, start creating!