Aquanza Cadogan Interview | Respect The Artist
How did you get your Artist name?
How did you get your Artist name? I lost my older brother to an illness at a very young age so I carry his name in honor and remembrance. My father would tell me that Activists would come to his country of Guyana to spread the message of black unity when he was a child. One of those Activists name was “Aquanza” – A name that he loved so much he named his son after.
How did you get into creating?
I have numerous ways of creating. My first introduction to creating came from Hip Hop and Hip Hop Culture. I would watch my older cousin write lyrics and make beats and thought “this is so dope.” Then I was introduced to break dancing, graffiti writing and street fashion in the early 90’s. All of these art forms influence the creative Storyteller I’ve become today. I got into creating to simply tell my narrative, if no one was telling the stories I wanted to hear then I needed to create it myself.
Where are you from?
I was born in Brooklyn, NY and spent my early childhood growing up in the East Flatbush section of the borough. I later migrated to Orlando, Florida with my parents in the late 80’s.
What did you do to advance your skills/knowledge?
I believe skill and knowledge are both truly obtained through experience, “the School of Hard Knocks” is what we called it. For me, my skill and knowledge was truly obtained through failure. I had to learn how to use failure as inspiration to build upon and learn from my mistakes instead of giving up on my dreams.
What does your current setup look like?
I’ve learned to create wherever and with whatever I have. I’ve setup a mini art studio in my garage where I create most of my visual art, murals and inventions. I’ve also set up office space in my home where I do most of my storytelling, digital and community outreach projects. You don’t need much to create but create nonetheless.
Who inspires you?
Maya Angelou, James Baldwin, Jessie Williams… great storytellers and Griots’ that preserve, maintain and carry on the narrative of black culture inspire me. I also find inspiration from painters, emcees and creatives that continue to push the boundaries of expectations.
What is your goal when you create?
My goal is always grounded on three simple principals – to entertain, to enlighten and to uplift. All three help people from all walks of life connect and find common ground through whatever artistic medium I’m using to tell my story.
What's your go-to song right now?
My go to song right now is a song by E.J. Strickland Quintet called “Uvumilivu.” The word is Swahili which means “patience” and “perseverance.” It’s a Jazz song that awakens my spirit with every note, beat and tempo change.
What is your dream as an artist?
Every generation before me had someone who stepped out of their comfort zone and said “I’m going to reach back and teach someone how to find their voice.” I want to be that artist for the next generation. To inspire young people to continue a honest narrative for my kids and their kids.
What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream?
The dream is only the foundation. Getting into the community and meeting people, other artists, creating networks, elevating each other… this is how a dream grows and flourishes. Don’t just dream, surround yourself with people who will help your dream become reality.
Tell us about your most recent release
I just finished creating an art installation called 1080x1080 in the streets of downtown Orlando. The purpose was based on Art. Community. Play, a chance for people from all walks of life to get out and have fun while creating an atmosphere of cool.
Share a link to your most recent release
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