We’re looking forward to introducing you to Raye’vn Harper. Check out our conversation below.
Raye’vn, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
When I create, I lose track of time. Creating art is a release- an expression of what words cannot capture. Guided by intuition & emotion; each piece reflects the shifting landscapes of my mind & the kaleidoscope of experiences that shape me. By mixing materials, I aim to create multi-dimensional works that bring a unique perspective.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a multi-disciplinary, media blending Artrepreneur; I am the Raye’vn in Raye’vns Nest. I’m a self- taught artist, designer & jeweler originally from Columbus, Ohio; now calling Austin, Tx home.
I integrate my designs, graffiti work, & painting using unconventional methods & materials on paper, canvas, skateboards or into accessories. I use reclaimed, antique, & natural materials to create my jewelry, & fabricate pieces. My style blends various materials & media drawing inspiration from bold graphic lines, street art influences, striking contrasts, & the interplay of elements. What began with pencil, ink & photography has grown to include acrylics, textiles, metal, wood, & digital media. Currently I have the pleasure to curate shows, events & display my creations across Austin, Tx & Nationwide.
Since we last checked in; I am also one of a quartet of amazing people, Bring Back the Weird. We are working to create safe weird spaces & events where creatives, whether you’re an artist, fire breather or everyday eccentric with a love of community, can be highlighted & congregate amongst others who will embrace them. We are welcoming the community-at-large to connect with us; whether you are interested in vending with us, sponsoring, showcasing at an event, hosting us, or being a volunteer, there’s more than enough space for you!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
Being a precocious child into an inquisitive young kid there were always challenges. The earliest memory I have of one of the first times, if not, the first time I had to stand up for myself & rely on my own fortitude. From tree climbing, kickball to dirt-biking, Often I was the only girl who also didn’t mind getting dirty, liked being outside, & in my neighborhood among a bunch of boys. I remember the feeling of every failure but also how charged I felt after I conquered them.
When you were sad or scared as a child, what helped?
Music is my cure, my comfort. It has always been in my life. Born into a family that adores music; there was constantly something playing, someone singing. Being able to hum before I could speak & even when there was nothing else, there was always music. When I create music, sing or dance, I do it for me the way someone takes their vitamins. As a child when I couldn’t express how I was feeling physically, I left it all on the paper. My understanding of myself, the world; expression of life & identity, the multifaceted things that come with that. The core of my artistic expression lies in the sincere attempt to convey the inexpressible, still fueled by that same mission.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire our motley crew in Bring Back the Weird, as my friends & fellow creatives; they are incredibly talented & powerful leaders. Kendra, the captain & life blood. Kendra is patient & has a wickedly quirky mind. She inspires me to go bigger, get weirder. Xanya, the owner of our home base, Higher Vibes, has a huge heart, fierce mind & such a love for her community. She helped me fall more in love with Austin & feel home. Nadia, our media wizard, the sweetest human & whimsical weirdo. She inspires me with her wild creations & drive. I’ve had the pleasure to create amazing experiences with them along the journey, with much more on the way.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope they tell stories of how my art inspired them to contemplate interpretations of identity, their connection to the Earth & the intersectionality of community-at-large. Tell stories about how they saw themselves within the work, stories consisting of authentic fierceness. I hope they tell stories of how my creations, how I made an impact on art, the world, my communities, & history. At the end of the day, that I am a multi-dimensional, eccentrically eclectic creative person who deserves love, respect & freedom to exist.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bringbacktheweird.com
- Instagram: rayevnsnest
