| Capturing the essence: an interview with photographer James Weeks |
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| by Minister of Information JR | |
| Tuesday, 25 December 2007 | |
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 James Weeks
James Weeks is a very talented photographer whom I met at one of his Oakland photo exhibitions that dealt with some of his photographs from the Caribbean a few years ago. The man has a very artistic eye that is very skilled at framing and putting his subjects into a particular context, whether it is capturing life in the islands or capturing spirituality through the African religion Ifa, which is the topic of his new calendar, "Sacred Journey," which prompted this interview. "Sacred Journey" is a must for people who love great Black photography, visual art, Ifa, African culture or philosophy. When asked about his artistry, this is what James Weeks had to say ... MOI JR: How long have you been a photographer? And how did you get into photography? James Meek: I've been a photographer for more than 20 years. I have a background in journalism and I initially began taking photographs to accompany my stories. MOI JR: Tell us about your newest creation, the "Sacred Journey" fine art calendar. James Weeks: "Sacred Journey" is the first of a series of calendars that feature the wisdom and the cultures of Africa. "Sacred Journey" is the only series that's dedicated to this mission. It's a highly philosophical and spiritual series and an incredible work of art that people will want to collect and share with their families. I also hope that Sacred Journey brings healing to people. Some of the most prominent healers in Africa spent 20 days channeling spiritual energy to support the launch of this calendar. We are all in need of healing, and we're also in need of each other. MOI JR: Can you give the readers a little bit of history about the religion of Ifa, which seems to be the centerpiece of this calendar? Where is it from? And what are some of the tenets of the religion?
 James Weeks 2008 calendar cover MOI JR: What role does photography play in society? What makes this art form unique? James Weeks: My work as a photographer is about relationships. It's about how to connect better with ourselves, others and the world around us. Life is ultimately about relationships, and to have success and joy we must become more skilled in the art of relationships. My art inspires people to reflect. I think the arts, in general, should challenge us to become better human beings, to take full advantage of this gift that is our life, to make the world a better place. Art should challenge us to expand not only our mind but our spirit. MOI JR: What is the importance of people in Amerikkka, particularly Black people, having a world view that is international instead of just national? James Weeks: We must strive to be citizens of the world - not just citizens of the neighborhood. Some of the answers to the most pressing issues of our times might be found in other cultures. Our goal should be to make a serious and disciplined effort to educate ourselves - not just in schools. Learning must be a lifelong endeavor, and this was certainly one of the lessons that Malcolm tried to teach us. We must rekindle our thirst for knowledge and understanding. We must be able to adapt. We must all find reasons to continue stepping toward our visions and dreams. MOI JR: Where can people get your calendar? And do you have any contact information? James Weeks: People can order this calendar directly from my website, www.sacredjourneyworldwide.com, or by calling (510) 388-5500.
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and visit www.blockreportradio.com, hiphopwarreport.com and myspace.com/blockreportfilm. |
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