10 Questions with Stephan Ravare

Stephan Joseph Ravare Jr. transcends the title of mere artist. His work embodies the role of a storyteller, channelling ideas, confronting and breaking barriers, and honouring his Louisiana Creole heritage through his art. Viewing art as a catalyst for transformation and acceptance, Stephan uses culture and differences to not only cope with mental health but to inspire solace and creativity. Apple Inc. spotlighted his artwork during Black History Month 2024, a testament to his profound impact.

Having studied digital art and animation at Full Sail University, he crafts digital masterpieces that exalt culture and familial customs. Stephan's collection of art paints vibrant scenes of life, immortalizing family gatherings and cultural heritage. His art seeks to forge connections with viewers, beckoning them into my world and igniting their own journeys of peace and inspiration. Stephan's unwavering dedication to mental health advocacy and the redemptive power of creativity underscores his conviction in art's capacity for positive change.

"Art is envisioned in the eyes of the beholder.
As an artist, technique can always be replicated, but vision cannot."

Stephan creates art to tell his story of where he comes from, what he believes, and what he experiences.

"One day, I wish to touch and inspire those who see the world differently the way I do."

creolebanditstudio.etsy.com | @creolebandit

INTERVIEW

First of all, what inspired you to pursue a career in art? And how did you become the artist you are today?

I wanted to be an artist ever since I was little. Ever since I was in the first grade, when I learned what art was, I’ve always had a passion for creating. My friends and family would always tell me that I had a gift to create. Living my life, going through all the different struggles and overcoming them and wanting to connect with people through art is what made me the artist I am today. My art helped me create a sense of connection and understanding.

Which artists or cultural influences have shaped your style?

My aunt, the artist Nina Spencer, has been a significant influence and mentor in my artistic journey. With years of experience in the art industry, she has played a pivotal role in shaping me into a digital and cultural storyteller. Although we belong to different eras, her folk art style has served as a foundation for some of my cultural art pieces. Also, my biggest cultural influence would probably be my family’s native state of Louisiana.

Lorraine Bridge, Digital Painting, 28x30 in, 2024 © Stephan Ravare

Can you share how your Louisiana Creole heritage influences the themes and imagery in your work?

Everything about my Louisiana Creole heritage influences my art. Louisiana is probably one of the biggest cultural influences around the world, from its festiveness to its food to its people. My culture has always been about spreading joy and about family, which is what I try to keep as the theme of my art.

Family and culture seem central to your art. How do you capture the essence of family gatherings and traditions in your digital work?

Family is everything to me. In fact, I could say that my family is my art. I find beauty in capturing those fleeting moments by observing the things we share together. From the grand family gatherings to the simple times spent in the kitchen cooking, these moments are what make my Creole culture so deeply cherished. And I like sharing those moments with the world.

On that note, how have digital art and animation influenced your creative process?

We live in a new era where digital art is now at the forefront of roughly all art creation, through not only painting but also graphic design, 3-D design, and animation. One of the things that I like about digital art is that it allows me to tell my story without having to worry about mistakes. It leaves room for mistakes and more room, to be precise. A lot of artists struggle when it comes to making mistakes because we are perfectionists. Digital art kind of removes that obstacle.

TheRoux, Digital Painting, 20x30 in, 2023 © Stephan Ravare

How do you approach storytelling in your artwork?

Everything I paint is a reflection of my experiences and the things that hold significance for me. When I approach storytelling, I focus on the aspects that resonate with me the most: my faith, my family, and my mental health. I identify the elements that I believe can connect with others and strive to create the most captivating piece that effectively conveys my story.

How does art help you cope with and communicate about mental health?

My art serves to help combat mental health by serving as a distraction. It also helps me by validating what I have experienced being a neurodivergent. The piece that I have known as “ADHD“ tells my story of what it was like growing up as a kid in an age where ADHD and autism were still new. It speaks of not only my triumph but the setbacks I’ve experienced.

You mentioned wanting to inspire others who see the world differently. How do you hope your art resonates with and impacts viewers?

Being neurodivergent can be challenging. There are others like me who are hesitant to express themselves creatively. Some of my most captivating art pieces are intended to inspire and help others think differently about how we perceive ourselves and others. I genuinely hope that my art reaches the right people and allows them to view neurodivergent individuals in a different light.

What was it like to have your work highlighted by Apple during Black History Month?

So, this was indeed my first artistic accolade. Apple organized an internal art contest, selecting three individuals from across the company to showcase their artwork during Black History Month. I was fortunate enough to be one of the three chosen artists. We had a live presentation that was broadcast throughout the entire company. My painting depicted my parents at their prom in 1985. During my presentation, I highlighted how my parents embodied a rare aspect of love that we often overlook during Black History Month, which is a significant theme for our community.

And lastly, how do you see your work evolving in the coming years?

As I often say, “Technique can always be replicated, but vision cannot.” As long as I retain my creative vision, my work will never truly be complete. There are always new techniques to discover, and my skills can continually improve. My art will evolve as long as I have a compelling story to convey and the ability to connect with others.

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.

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