Episode 51

Atlanta, Prints and Podcasts with Jamaal Barber

Published on: 16th April, 2024

Atlanta, Prints, and Podcasts with Jamaal Barber

Hey Everyone!! Welcome to another episode of another noseyAF!!! This is episode 51!


Summary of the episode

In this episode I enjoyed sitting with the incredibly talented artist and printmaker Jamal Barber. Jamal, a Virginia native now deeply embedded in the Atlanta art scene, shares his journey from stumbling upon a screen printing demo to becoming a full-fledged artist passionate about the craft.


We delve into the intricacies of printmaking, discussing how the medium's process-oriented nature helped Jamal find his artistic voice and build confidence. He opens up about the challenges and triumphs of pursuing art full-time, especially after being laid off from his job. It's a story of resilience, with Jamal crediting his wife's unwavering support as a pivotal factor in his decision to focus on his art career.


Our conversation also touches on the importance of honesty in the art world, the evolving definition of success, and the role of relationships in an artist's life. Jamal emphasizes that art is not just about individual achievement but also about the partnerships and life circumstances that shape an artist's journey.


Additionally, Jamal gives us a peek into his podcast, Studio Noise, which he views as a curation project, highlighting the diverse voices and experiences within the art community. He reflects on the significance of sharing these stories and how they can inspire listeners to understand that there's no single path to being an artist.


This episode is a testament to the power of curiosity, the strength found in community, and the beauty of a life dedicated to art. Join us for this insightful and heartfelt conversation with Jamal Barber and discover the multifaceted world of printmaking and the vibrant art scene in Atlanta.


Topics discussed:

  • Jamal Barber's journey from discovering screen printing to establishing himself as an artist in the Atlanta scene.

  • The role of resilience and support, particularly from Jamal's wife, in navigating the challenges of pursuing art full-time.

  • Insights into the importance of honesty, evolving definitions of success, and the role of relationships in an artist's life, as discussed through Jamal's experiences and reflections.

Jaamal’s bio:

Jamaal Barber is a creative, imaginative soul born in Virginia and raised in North Carolina. In 2013, after seeing a screen printing demo at a local art store, Jamaal started experimenting with printmaking and made it his primary focus. His woodcuts and mixed media prints are displayed at ZuCot Gallery. They have also been included in the Decatur Arts Festival, Atlanta Print Biennial Show and at various art shows around the Metro Atlanta area. Additionally, Jamaal has done work for Twitter, the New York Times, Penguin Random House, Black Art in America and Emory University.


In 2004, Jamaal moved to Atlanta, GA where he now resides with his wife and two children.


Connect with JaamalInstagram: @jbarberstudio                    :@studionoizepodcast


Website: www.jbarberstudio.com/


Connect with StephanieInstagram: @stephaniegraham                    :@noseyafpod


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About the Podcast

noseyAF: Conversations about Art, Activism, and Social Change
Want to make creative work that actually matters?
On noseyAF, you'll eavesdrop on honest, behind-the-scenes conversations between working artists, filmmakers, and community organizers who are building bold, culture-shifting projects—and sharing exactly how they do it.
I'm Stephanie Graham, a multidisciplinary artist and filmmaker, and these are the conversations I actually want to have: unfiltered talks about creative breakthroughs, activist hustle, messy pivots, and daily practices that make a difference.
Sure, we cover the basics—who they are, what they do, and how they got started—but we also get nosy: How do they make decisions? What keeps them going? How do they pay their bills and stay true to their vision?
Every other week, I share these raw, energizing convos that fuel my own practice—and might just spark something in yours. Whether you're an artist, curator, cultural worker, or someone who loves peeking behind the curtain, you’ll walk away with practical strategies, real talk, and unexpected inspiration.
The best stories live in the details—and the most powerful creativity happens when we get wonderfully nosy about what really drives us.
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Stephanie Graham

Hi there! I'm Stephanie, the creative force behind this podcast!
As a curious multi-disciplinary artist, filmmaker, and Real Housewives scholar, I dive into the fascinating world of relationships and subcultures through conversations with artists, activists, and neighbors. I explore their practices while sharing my journey in art, which includes creating films, photos, and installations focusing on race, social class, and subculture.
Outside of my studio practice and podcasting, I also run Graham Cracker Pins, which offers unique pins that reflect my love for creativity. Although my background involves work in TV and film, NDAs limit what I can share about those projects. Nevertheless, when I can, I do! For more of my art, visit missgraham.com or dive into pin heaven at GrahamCrackerPin.co. Join me as I unravel what others are up to with humor and curiosity.