We have launched Episode 1 of our Future Icon Series. This is an innovative step on our Serge Meets template which features up and coming creatives who are icons of their craft and time. The concept behind this series is to provide a platform for likeminded individuals to speak about their journey and how they intend to create a legacy. Serge is not just a jewellery brand, but the jewellery represents wearing your armour and owning your skin so you can communicate a message through your everyday fashion.
The first icon to feature in this series is Meeks Rayvon. Joshua Meek-Rayvon Williams is a 25-year old self-taught visual artist in London. From shooting musicians such as AJ Tracey and Mabel, executing a global Converse campaign, and being the videographer of PAQ, Joshua has garnered global attention and success in his unique way of executing a creative vision.
"I remember the first time I picked up a camera, what got me was evoking a feeling onto someone else. Everyone loves having their photo taken - Anyone that says differently is lying. When you get a great photo you are like 'wow, you blessed me with that'. You know, creating that imagery that is a stamp - A photo is a memory that can't be lost, and it lasts forever, and that is kinda what made it amazing for me" - Meeks Rayvon
Joshua was chosen to be the first Icon of the Future Icon Series, because of the message he carries in his work. Being entirely self-taught and only 25 shows the level of commitment to hone your craft and create a legacy.
"For me, Serge is more than just a brand, it's about a creative community. Young creative individuals who aren't afraid to follow their dreams, and push the boundaries of traditional methods. It is the backbone of the brand, and for the Meeks embodies exactly this. Not only is he extremely talented, but he is also passionate, humble, and most importantly, he isn't afraid to express his individuality. This is something we always look for - someone who is confident, and not afraid to look beyond the norm" - Oliver Proudlock, Founder & Creative Director.
Below is a short Q&A - Some were edited in the video, others were not.
What made you get into photography?
When I was in school, my mum brought me my first camera. It was a Nikon d3100, that was a pretty entry-level camera, but it gave me that push to start capturing things and shooting.
6 things that describe me
Visual, Metitlcous, Ambitious, Risk-Taker, Amiable, Hopeful.
Your earliest memory you have with photography?
I remember the first time I picked up a camera. What got me was evoking a feeling onto someone else. Everyone loves having their photo taken, anyone that says differently is lying. When you get a great photo you are like 'wow you blessed me with that.' You know, creating that imagery that is a stamp - A photo is a memory that can't be lost, and it lasts forever, and that is what makes it kinda amazing for me.
When did you know you wanted to work in a creative industry?
At school, I was never incredibly academic in subjects like maths but I always found that my two passions were sports and creative subjects. So working in one of these area's made sense and photography is something which I have always been passionate about.
What was your first piece of jewellery and who gave it to you?
A Gold ring which my dad gave to me. My parents used to kit me out all the time (thanks). Not only that but they blessed me with some on-point baby photo's which we all still look at today.
What would be your advice to someone 10 years younger?
- Take risks
-Do everything
- Don't box yourself in, life is a journey
- Develop a wide array of skills - specialise later on.
- Stay in your lane.
- Be prepared the industry is fast-paced.
- Remember your hot one second but not the next.
Who is your favourite artist?
I love Isaiah Rashad, he's a similar age to me and killing it.
You dream publication to work with?
I would love for my work to be published in either The Times or National Geographic.
Who is your icon(s) that you look up to?
The answer for this has to be Denzel Washing or Will Smith.
Photographers you look up to/inspire you?
- Renelle Alice
- Neil Krug
- Daria Kobayashi
- Nadine Ijewere
- Filmawi
- Sab Adams.
