E20 Artistic Entrepreneurship with Raheem Nelson

Art and entrepreneurship are two things that sometimes don’t really coexist, or at least have a hard time doing so. Raheem Nelson is the man that combines both. A local artist with a boundless passion for his craft, Nelson shares his inspiring journey and sheds light on how he’s harnessing his creativity to make a meaningful impact but also support himself.

Growing up in New Haven, Raheem Nelson’s artistic journey found its roots at the Educational Center for the Arts (ECA). It was here that his love for art was first nurtured, setting the stage for the profound impact his hometown would have on his work. His exposure to cartooning and comic books kindled a spark that would lead him to explore various artistic mediums, from oils and life drawing to sculpture and photography.

Moving on to study at the School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York City, Nelson delved deeper into his passion, ultimately finding his calling in oil painting. His foundation year at SVA was a pivotal period that allowed him to experiment with diverse art forms, from painting live models to creating thought-provoking illustrations of bound objects.

With a strong foundation in traditional art forms, Nelson has since embraced the digital realm, leveraging his learned skills to create captivating artwork digitally. His dedication to incorporating the energy, culture, and community of New Haven into his work sets him apart, infusing every piece with the essence of his roots.

Nelson’s entrepreneurial spirit and artistic prowess have led him to explore various avenues of creativity. From graphic recording during meetings and events to pursuing opportunities in NFTs (non-fungible tokens), his journey has been one of bold experimentation and unyielding determination.

The merging of art and entrepreneurship has been a defining factor in Nelson’s career. His ability to adapt and thrive across diverse artistic domains, coupled with his passion for graphic recording, has enabled him to not only carve out a successful path for himself but also bring value to the businesses and individuals he collaborates with.

Throughout our conversation, Nelson’s dedication to infusing purpose into his art and entrepreneurial ventures shone through. Whether it’s bringing visual storytelling to life or empowering presenters through his graphic recordings, his work is driven by a deep-seated desire to uplift others and create a meaningful impact.

Looking ahead, Nelson’s trajectory brims with promise. His unwavering commitment to using graphic recording for good, partnering with nonprofits, and spreading his art across different states and countries all attest to his vision of making a difference through his craft.

Raheem Nelson’s narrative is not just one of artistic achievement but also a testament to the resilience and creativity found within New Haven. His journey from ECA to the global stage of NFTs reflects the boundless potential that lies within the city’s artistic community.

As we wrapped up our conversation it’s clear that Raheem’s dedication to art, entrepreneurship, and the community encapsulates the very essence of working towards one’s purpose. His story serves as a testament to the transformative power of art and the unwavering spirit of those who endeavor to make a meaningful impact through their creative pursuits.

To listen to the full episode and discover more stories of purpose and fulfillment, you can subscribe to “Working Towards Our Purpose” on your favorite podcast platform.