The Lion of New York (Interview)

Dorian Valentine aka The Lion of New York

Website: https://golden-warrior.myshopify.com/

Instagram: Lionofnewyork

Photo Credit: seanchallenger

 Who Are You?

I am a positive entity to the world around me always wanting to help, motivate, guide or to inspire people. This journey has allowed me to be golden in my career, my passion and my purpose. 

 What or Who is “Lion of New York?” 

“Lion of New York” is a culture I wanted to create for people who are continuing to be the best versions of themselves everyday. We are all lions in which we are working towards a goal that we haven’t acheived yet. The idea of fear is absent in which we rise to the challenge and we just go for it regardless of the obstacles that are in our path.

 What is purpose to you? 

Purpose to me means waking up in the morning and looking forward to my day before it has begun. Being able to enjoy what I do on a daily basis because what I do is much greater than myself. 

Have you found your purpose? 

Yes, I do believe I have found my purpose. Took me a few months after graduating college to realize. 

 How is your purpose reflected in your art?

In my Art, I like to use ordinary materials that people gravitate too whether it be a jacket, a hat or sneakers/shoes. My vision would be to make it more functional in which people wear it to not only focus on building their style but to wear it with purpose. I believe what we wear is an artform that serves as a reflection of who we are as an individual. 

If You can describe your art would you? And if you would, what would you say? 

I would say my art is very bold yet visually authentic portraying many life affirming quotes and meanings. 

What inspires you?

My art is inspired by what the lion represents. Thus beginning my journey in building the “lion of New York” brand. In this concrete jungle we call New York City, people of different colors and all walks of life are determined to make their mark and build their own legacy. As compared to the lion we do exude fearlessness and courage because we are strong and determined in the pursuit of our dreams.

What drives you to do what you do? 

I enjoy unleashing my creativity for it has no bounds. When I think of the word “lion” I think of the word “wild” and then I start to think of many different ways that I can present that visually. I continue to experiment and go outside of my comfort zone.

Why did you start making art? 

As a Communication Design student for five years, I was always designing on the computer. I would use many design programs such InDesign, photoshop and illustrator to do many of my projects. So I decided to take another route and do something different with my art. 

A life of digital art became a thing of the past so I wanted to try something new but going back to the basics: paint and some brushes. I felt using these these tools didn’t keep me confined and I have as much freedom to make art compared to using a labtop. 

What about the art you make allows you to be who you are? 

My art is a reflection of my life experiences so as I create my growth starts to take place. Overall, The art I make allows me be unique in my ideas, my words and my mission. 

Is there something you cannot live without in your tool kit? 

I definitely cannot live without patience in my tool kit. Patience is what allows me to trust the process and not to rush things. Being an artist is both a blessing and a curse. It is a blessing because you can brainstorm a ton of ideas in your mind but its a curse because you’re not sure which idea youre going to go with because they are all great ideas. I think it is really important to just breathe and just focus on one thing at a time. 

What would you tell your thirteen year old self?

I would tell them to continue drawing/painting. Apply to art schools particularly in the fashion field. Save your work and build a portfolio so that way you can see your transformation as an artist. Most importantly create something that will outlive you. 

What would you tell your 60 year old self?

I am happy to have pursued such a goal in making my mark in the art world. Not thinking about the what ifs but took the risk and tried my best. You never know how successful you will be if you don’t put your best foot forward. 

Other than art, what else are you passionate about? 

When I am not making art, I am a Full-time Paraprofessional with The Department of Education working with special needs students to help them become independent. In addition I plan to study Occupational Therapy for my Masters Degree.

Anything you would like to leave us with?

You never know who is watching you, who is inspired by you, motivated by you so continue to be your best self everyday. Representation matters.