Today we’d like to introduce you to Marley Jayy.
Hi Marley, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Well, my journey to becoming a creative butterfly started in 2020 (pandemic). You know everyone was trapped inside with nothing to do. My brother gifted me with a camera, and my creative expression started from there. From taking nature photos in my neighborhood, to capturing my classmates everyday life at school, to snapping candids of my family… and so on. Fast Forward to 2022 when I got my first job at a local new station (Eyewitness News), being there planted me deeper into a space where I could express myself fully. Who would’ve thought that a young photographer like myself would’ve bloomed into a Artistic expressionist, finding my best self in everything I do: Photography, Video-editing, Directing, Dancing, Modeling, Live-Production Camera-Operating, and so much more. So here I am today, as an artistic, soulful, creative expressionist.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I don’t think any creative has a smooth road. We all have something/someone that pushes us to our full potential. For me, dealing with my mother’s passing in 2022 was a bit of a challenge because I always prayer and wish she would be here to see the person I’ve become. But the thing is, I also use that as a catapults to become even better at what I do everyday, with the thought of “If she was here, she would be proud” you know? Also when it came to when I started curating shows (REIGN OF THE ECLECTICS), I’m glad that I have people in my life who helps me to make sure I have everything I need, but funding certain events is always a challenge when you have big dreams but not alot or corporate support behind you. Luckily for me, when I want something bad, I get it done either way, even if I have to burst my own pocket open. Lol! 🙂
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Photogenic, Optimistic, Nerdy, Earthy, Artsy, Creative Expressionist. I make human art with my Canon Mark III EOS and 50mm/24-105mm lens. I edit fun/lifestyle social media videos on Adobe Premiere Pro. I make “MarleyCentric” content on TikTok. I dance and direct the Reign of the Eclectics dance organization, and I also do ballet with AMFA studios (Level 5 AAB). I do camera-operator work for alot of different events most recent being: Lenny Kravitz Concert, Sean Paul Concert, and The Creative and Performing Arts school of the Bahamas first showcase.
What am I most proud of? The ability to be my authentic self through my work and in my everyday life with a big support group around me.
What sets me apart? My friends and family like to say “there is only ONE Marley”. Everything I do reflects my personality and my outlook on life.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memory…. I had a long purple dance skirt and my mom had this reggae CD she enjoyed playing. I remember a time where it was playing one of the track and it was “The world is a cycle” by Richie Spice and I had that long skirt on just swaying from side to side with my two fingers in the air and she recorded me on her blackberry HAHA! I have no idea where that recording is, but that is a core memory etched in my brain.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://theofficialmarleyjayy.my.canva.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lettucetalkot/ and https://www.instagram.com/marleyizm_/
- LinkedIn: Marley Johnson
Image Credits
Photo Credits:
Roberto Charitable
Jahiem Rahming
Dynette Telear
Photos of AMFA
Stephano Morley
Bryanah Russell
Dynamic Captures
M.Jayy Media
