What do the words "Creative Community" bring to mind for you? How do you feel is the best way to utilize members in a Creative Community?
I think of places like Portland, Oregon and Bushwick, Brooklyn where many creatives are living and collaborating in multiple different ways. I don’t know if there is a best way to utilize members of a creative community but being part of one provides its members with many opportunities and inspiration. Whatever comes naturally to each person in that community and how they want to interact with it is up to them.
How did you discover your creativity?
There isn’t a time when I can’t remember being creative. My earliest memories are of being into music and beating on chairs when I was about 5 years old. I think my mother bought me my first toy drum set when I was 6 and I have been playing ever since. I played this morning as a matter of fact.
Name the biggest challenge you have had in your career to date. How did you solve it?
There are lots of challenges I have faced but I would say the biggest challenge was being 30 years old and moving back to my parents house. I worked at a bagel shop in downtown Trenton, NJ for 2 years until I opened my first gallery. That was very challenging to my self esteem and convictions.
What was your first “Big Break” in your profession?
My biggest break was probably being able to create a website in the early 2000’s and have an international audience as a result. This allowed me to grow my business and not depend on my physical location so much.
What's in your backpack/handbag/tote right now?
I don’t have one.
Do you have any advice for someone starting out in your creative profession?
Be patient and persevere. If you don’t love what you do, then do something else. It’s not an easy business.
What are some of your favorite places/books/blogs/websites for inspiration?
Arrested Motion, Juxtapoz and Hi Fructose.
What would be your DREAM ASSIGNMENT?
I am doing it.
Who are the people that have been instrumental in your success as a creative professional?
I have had a variety of mentors from professors, who I still maintain relationships with, to artists like Ron English and art critic Carlo McCormick. Also the artists who have believed in me enough to collaborate with me. I have also had great employees who have manned my ship so to speak.
What would be your last supper?
A Naples style margarita pizza.
Full Name: Jonathan LeVine
Profession: Gallerist
Industry: Fine Art
Website: http://jonathanlevinegallery.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JonathanLeVineGalleryNYC
Instagram: https://instagram.com/jonathanlevinegallery
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JLeVineGallery
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