Social injustices are experienced through struggle or viewed on the news. Social justice is experienced and viewed through Malcolm J’s struggle.
Kevin Jones, better known as Malcolm J, is a Columbus-area artist.
Jones established his name as Malcolm J because his middle name is Malcolm and the first letter of his last name is J. His name also alludes to Malcolm X because he compares and contrasts his social oppressions with those of Malcolm X.
“It’s more like an alter ego or flair. It sounds like an artist name, and I like to compare it to Malcolm X,” Jones said. “No way in the world am I comparing myself to him, but the name has a special meaning and ring to it.”
Jones faced a low economic status as a child, which later led him to homelessness in Cleveland, for a short period of time. In addition to his economic suppression, he battles depression, Attention Deficit Disorder and glaucoma.
Jones said he doesn’t feel that his disabilities have affected his art in any way. His glaucoma has blinded him in one eye, but his use of his other eye has produced artwork that has been featured at the 83 Gallery and Ohio State‘s Disability Art Awareness Exhibit in Bricker Hall.
“As you can see, I can still make (art) happen, even with one eye,” Jones said. “I’m fortunate enough to have my one other good eye though.”
His interest in art was sparked when he was in grade school. He liked the possibilities of where his imagination could take him. Art removes him from everyday distractions. The only time he can alleviate his mind from the divides of social inequality is when he’s working on art.
For Jones, his story behind a piece is strictly impulsive. Often, it’s hard to understand an artist’s underlying message, but Jones thinks that the art can tell whatever story the viewer wants it to he said.
“For some artists, it’s a challenge to create the story, but for me, it’s easy. I’ve never had an artist block,” Jones said. “My message is always instinctive and I can always get it together.”
Jones said OSU students can learn something from his art in Bricker Hall.
“Like school, students can learn something through my art,” Jones said. “It can make you mindful of how life really is, like the news does.”
Jones said having his art in Bricker Hall right outside of President E. Gordon Gee’s office is an honor and surprise for Jones, but the experience has humbled him. He uses his recognition as inspiration for others. Through his story and art, he hopes to motivate the weary and triumphed he said.
On June 12, Jones will travel to Washington, D.C., To take part in Visual State of Art’s leadership conference. There, he will be able to showcase his art, take part in artist workshops, social network and connect with other disabled artists who are moving past their disabilities.
