Happy Creativity Thursday!
I started February with an artist date to the National Museum of African Art’s Earth Matters celebration and exhibition. It was just what I needed to open my creative heart: spoken word, live DJs spinning groovy music, body art performers, African dancing and drumming, live bands performing incredible music, and an opportunity to be photographed by Kofi Handon, Founder and President of Loves Life Photography.
After I had my photograph taken, I spoke briefly with Kofi about his work. As I listened, I was struck by his humility, kindness, and soulful creative energy. The next day, I visited his web site to learn more about him and discovered the beauty of his photography. I also learned he is a fellow Howardite. So I decided to reach out to him for an interview. Read on to learn why I am celebrating him today and be sure to visit Loves Life Photography online, Facebook, and Twitter.
Q: Thanks Kofi for agreeing to do an interview with me today. I am a huge fan of your photography. Let’s start with a six-word memoir that describes your passions.
KH: Life. Love. Legacy. Beauty. Art. Everlasting.
Q: What is your definition of creativity?
KH: Creativity is allowing yourself to develop or mold your inner artistry naturally.
Q: What do you want people to gain from your photography?
KH: I want people to look at my photographs and remember that given the weight of day-to-day struggles, they should seize moments where the load of life is lightened by smiles, laughter, hidden message, and love.
Q: What lessons have you learned from being creative and a photographer?
KH: I have learned five key lessons.
- There is beauty in everything.
- There is no limit to what you can create and do if your heart is in it.
- There is always something new to learn. The craft of photography doesn’t stop. It will continue to evolve.
- It’s important to network and partner with others.
- Stay true to who you are.
Q: What were your top four creative moments in 2013?
KH: I traveled to France, Spain, and Morocco, and chronicled my journey through photographs featuring the various cultures, food, people, and places I visited in January and February 2013. I also shared the photographs with my Facebook community. Shooting the sunset in Essaouira, Morocco was one of my favorite moments.
Traveling to New York City with the Andinkra Group to shoot political activist and artist, Femi Kuti was a great moment!
Another moment was covering Sweet Honey in the Rock at The Howard Theatre while First Lady Michelle Obama was there. I spoke to Mrs. Obama’s assistant and told her I would put together some framed and signed action shots for her since she follows the group and that was one member’s last show in D.C. before retiring.
In November 2013, I did a photo shoot for Maimouna Youssef, a Grammy-nominated singer, emcee, songwriter and poet. I spent eight hours using and learning all of my equipment.
Ananda Leeke 
Thank you so much Ananda for the opportunity to share who I am, and what I am about. Your platform for showcasing life’s experiences embodies the core principles of which Loves Life stands. I wish you continued success and look forward to working together more in the future.
My pleasure Kofi!