Our 'ON THE SPOT ' interview series highlights individuals throughout the creative community for their contributions to art and culture. Putting these artists "on the spot" we created a space where creatives and innovators tap into the conversation to uplift and continue to inspire the creative community. Next up is...Normulis.
Born and raised in Ghana, West Africa Joseph Acquaye is an LA-based photographer and artist with a mission to tell stories and capture moments that evoke emotion, create connections and inspire change. Creating art under the name Normulis, his work often focuses on the beauty of nature, the power of culture, and the strength of the human spirit.
"The name “Normulis” comes from the latin word “Normalis'' which simply means “Normal.” The soul of this name is rooted in the idea that we are all made perfectly. Perfection does not live outside of our realm. It is not something we have to find or “become,” but rather, it is something we already possess. We only have to walk in it and learn more about it through personal growth."
What's the best thing you've done, simply because you were told you can't?
I’m a full-time artist. Photographer, Musician, and Actor. Being Ghanaian, pursuing the arts as a career is frowned upon. I’ve been told it’s laughable to pursue the arts and I’ve been told to pursue it as a side occupation. Since it’s what I love, I went in full throttle. Now, I’m a full-time artist.
What are you manifesting in 2023?
Manifesting bigger opportunities as a photographer. Also — shooting my first magazine cover! This is something I’ve always dreamed of and this is the year I believe it’s going to happen.
If you could build your dream creative team who would it be?
Here me out… this team is going to be unstoppable. Hype Williams, Ye, All the folks that work for Beyoncé, Steve Jobs, and Clarence Avant. Come on! Who is stopping this team!
What have you grown to love and/or outgrown in the past year?
This past year I’ve grown to love being more vulnerable. This includes uncomfortable honesty and sitting more with my decisions. I’ve outgrown being overly nice to “keep peace.” This is therapeutic
How do you feel about this statement: "Black Artists Matter"...
Black Artists make the world go round. Black Artists give the world shape. Black Artists breathe life to our culture. We are pioneers. We are teachers. We are real.
What creative source or outlet do you often visit to get inspiration and renew your creativity?
Music. I need music. Either I make it or I’m soaking it in. I see images and colors when I immerse myself in music. Therefore I need it.
What are you unapologetic for?
Unapologetic for being my weird quirky self. For so long I hadn’t accepted who I was — I’ve been shamed for not being like everyone else. I’ve also terribly failed at conforming, so I had to learn to be comfortable with me. I’m unapologetic for that.
Have you ever had a "this can't be happening" moment? Tell us more about this experience.
The year I moved to LA, I was mighty excited and prepared. I had saved just the right amount of money for this move. I had been working the whole summer. One day on the highway, on my way home from work — I heard one loud explosion from my engine. Yup — “this can’t be happening.” My car was done for. The cost of fixing it was as much as buying another car. I used my whole savings to purchase a new car and moved with only $50. Amen.
If you were to throw a message bottle into the ocean, what would it say?
Take risks. Enjoy life.
Photo Credit:
ART 1: Photographer: Normulis (@normulis_) Creative Director/Stylist/Hair/Muse: Vylet Kumwa (@vyletkumwa) ART 2: Photographer/Creative Director: Normulis (@normulis_) Muse: Vylet Kumwa (@vyletkumwa) ART 3: Photographer/Stylist/Creative Director: Normulis (@normulis_) Muse: Sohna Bruce-Oliver (@sohhsohhh) ART 4: Photographer/Stylist/Creative Director: Normulis (@normulis_) Muse: Sohna Bruce-Oliver(@sohhsohhh) ART 5: Photographer/Stylist/Creative Director: Normulis (@normulis_) Muse: Kamsi Arinze (@thekamsi) ART 6: Photographer: Normulis (@normulis_) Creative Director/Stylist: Vylet Kumwa (@vyletkumwa) Muse: Zack Bayati (@zackbayati) ART 7: Photographer: Normulis (@normulis_) Creative Director/Stylist: Vylet Kumwa (@vyletkumwa) Muse: Zack Bayati (@zackbayati) ART 8: Photographer/Stylist/Creative Director: Normulis (@normulis_) Muse: India Howard (@theindiahoward) ART 9: Photographer/Stylist/Creative Director: Normulis (@normulis_) Muse: Kamsi Arinze (@thekamsi) ART 10: Photographer/Stylist/Creative Director: Normulis (@normulis_) Muse: Kamsi Arinze (@thekamsi) ART 11: Photographer: Normulis (@normulis_) Creative Director/Stylist: Drusilla Arhin (@drustyles_) Muse: Roanen Campbell (@roanenknows) ART 12: Photographer: Normulis (@normulis_) Creative Director/Stylist: Drusilla Arhin (@drustyles_) Muse: Roanen Campbell (@roanenknows)
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