Javaughn Forde is a talented multidisciplinary artist who has been funded for As We Speak. We caught up with him to hear more about the creative scene over in Trinidad and Tobago.
Javaughn, great to chat again. I want to dig into a bit more about where you’re from and your local community. You’re based in Trinidad & Tobago, tell us what’s your favourite thing about your city/country?
The favourite thing about my country is our unwavering ability to have fun and put on a smile in the face of adversity. We are extremely resilient people and carry that wherever we are. You would be able to spot a trinbagonian from miles away. We bring joy even when you may think that there shouldn’t be any.
What is the creative scene like there?
Currently the creative scene is thriving. We have a lot of up and coming, as well as established artists in our midst that have found themselves within the community. Kevon spencer (ig: kevonspencerart), Freetown Collective (ig: wearefreetown), Tessa Alexander (ig: tessaalexanderart) and Jabari McKnight (ig: jabarimcknight) are just some of the front runners of the creative scene in Trinidad and Tobago. Truly inspiring people.
Sounds like there’s lots’ of people doing some ace work! How strong is the creative community?
The creative community is quite strong and tightly knitted. Most poets at least have a working relationship with each other where we’re able to reach out for help. Artists are also closely knitted, sharing each other’s works, showing up to their events and generally participating in their growth. This unity makes us extremely strong and a force to be reckoned with on the international stage.
Do you feel like there is enough support for artists?
I don’t think that there’s enough support for artists all of the time. When Carnival rolls around most of the country is in awe at the work done by creatives be it music, art or costuming and are often willing to support. After Carnival however, it seems as though the love once had vanished unless you’re in niche groups which support artists and their ventures year round.
What are your hopes for art / creativity in your community?
My hopes are simple. I’d like to show that it is possible to be an artist and have a comfortable life. I’d like to share the opportunities that I’ve had and continue to encounter with those to come after me and those walking with me right now. There’s space for all of us to make it and I’d like to give “making it” to them as much as I can.
Want more? Click through to learn more about his work here.