In this episode, host Ben Gougeon from Quad City Arts sits down with the dynamic Isaiah "Zay" Williams, an artist, filmmaker, and the recent Citizen of the Year award winner in Rock Island. Join us as Isaiah shares his inspiring artistic journey, which began in earnest during his high school and college years when he found his voice through social media. From shoe customization to vibrant sculptures, Isaiah's unique art style, which he dubs the "Afroverse," reflects his passion for connecting pop culture with deep social themes.
A focal point of their conversation is Isaiah's exciting new project, "Stealth Angels." This forthcoming short film, a sci-fi action thriller, tells the story of a military organization of youth on a high-stakes mission to rescue hostages. Isaiah reveals that this concept has been a lifelong dream, nurtured since childhood, and he’s thrilled to finally bring it to fruition. Listeners will learn about the film's pre-production process, his vision for involving local Rocky students in hands-on filmmaking experiences, and details about the upcoming casting call. Furthermore, Isaiah candidly discusses his crowdfunding efforts to finance the project, inviting listeners to support a local artist's ambitious endeavor.
The discussion also takes a deeper dive into Isaiah's entrepreneurial mindset as an artist, highlighting the delicate balance between creativity and business acumen. Isaiah emphasizes the importance of financial literacy and the invaluable guidance he’s received from seasoned professionals in the arts. Listeners will appreciate his insights on how to navigate the complexities of artistic entrepreneurship while remaining true to one's creative vision.
In addition to filmmaking, the episode touches on Isaiah's colorful visual artworks, such as his homage to childhood favorites in pieces like "Ms. Brizle," and a meaningful portrait he created for comedian Marlon Wayans. The conversation also showcases his community engagement efforts, including collaborative events that blend visual art, poetry, and music. Fans of the Star Wars franchise will enjoy hearing Isaiah's personal favorites from the series, rounding out an engaging and multifaceted conversation that celebrates creativity, storytelling, and community involvement. Don't miss this chance to explore the artistry and ambition of Isaiah Zay Williams in a vibrant and enlightening episode!