Introducing JP: Championing Art for the People

It is with great excitement that we announce the newest honorary chair for Artsplosure - The Raleigh Arts Festival: JP- Jermaine Powell, a visionary artist whose work transcends boundaries and brings communities together.

Born and raised in a suburb of Cleveland, Ohio, JP's artistic journey has taken him around the world, where he has immersed himself in historical art and design work while meeting all sorts of extraordinary individuals along the way. However, it is in Raleigh, North Carolina, where JP has found his true home and passion for community-focused art.

For JP, art is not just about aesthetics; it is about functionality and impact. He believes in the power of art to transform spaces and unite people from diverse backgrounds. Over the years, JP has forged meaningful partnerships that have enhanced public community areas, leaving a lasting legacy of beauty and inspiration.

JP's signature style is characterized by what he calls the "#jpyourlife effect" – a joyful diversity that reflects the rich tapestry of human experiences. His work resonates with people of all backgrounds, fostering connections and bridging divides. Through public art projects in historical communities in the United States and South Africa, JP has realized his lifelong dream of using art as a tool for social change.

Most recently, JP has finished work in Morocco and was chosen as one of 12 recipients for the Prat>Forward 2024 program in NYC. He has become the official North Carolina Museum of Art’s Artist in Residence and will have a new exhibition called Leadership Reimagined/Share Your Journey on view in September 2024 at NCMA..

What sets JP apart is not just his artistic talent, but also his collaborative spirit and commitment to serving the needs of the community. He approaches each project with enthusiasm, seeking to honor and uplift the voices of those he serves. For JP, art is a means of empowerment, allowing individuals to "Own The Greatest™" versions of themselves.

As we prepare for Artsplosure - The Raleigh Arts Festival, we are honored to have JP as our honorary chair. His passion for art and dedication to community engagement embody the spirit of our festival, and we cannot wait to see the impact of his vision on our event and the city of Raleigh.