Adore April 2022

F ranky is a classically trained dancer and multidisciplinary performance artist who has participated in several cabaret and dance troupes. His Haitian heritage plays a key role in his art, and he often focuses on deconstructing the idea of what it means to be Black and Queer in the South. He has performed in large-scale circus shows around the country, is currently a member of the New Orleans Museum of Art's Creative Assembly Cohort, and appeared in the documentary film To Decadence with Love, Thanks for Everything. WHY NEW ORLEANS? I believe that New Orleans is one of the last original cities. When I think about how other cities are all starting to look and feel the same, New Orleans has its own heartbeat and spirit. I can't think of anywhere else I can wake up on a Saturday morning and hear an impromptu jazz band practicing down my street. I can't think of a better place to call home.

FAVORITE PART ABOUT WHAT YOU DO? In a world where we're conditioned to follow a "step-by-step" playbook on what it means to be successful, creating art gives you the ability to define what success means on your own terms. WHAT DO YOU DO TO NURTURE CREATIVITY? I cherish moments of silence, where ideas can flow freely. Taking care of my mind and body is an important aspect to nurturing my art, so I make sure to stay hydrated, stretch daily, and journal any new ideas that come to me. WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE FOR TAKING CREATIVE RISKS? We're taught at an early age to play it safe, but life is meant to be exhilarating and unpredictable, so you might as well lean in! With great risks come great rewards. If you're patient and have faith in your abilities, every risk will be worth it. BIGGEST INSPIRATION IN YOUR WORK? My grandma, who was the epitome of love and kindness.

FAVORITE QUOTE? "Express yourself, don't repress yourself" Madonna

ADORE • APRIL 2022

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