What is the definition of art? Who can really put a finger on it, stake a claim and state what it is definitively? The reality is that art is subjective and will elicit some type of emotion good or bad. Art will spark a revolution or calm a storm. The power it commands transcends a simple linear definition of what it is and can be. Human beings represent the most amazing work of art ever created in the universe. Many of these human beings have the capacity to express this art and beauty of life with their energy.
Fanta Celah is art and her expression throughout many different mediums speaks to the beauty and creative energy that exists within all of us. We spoke with her recently to learn more about who she is and what makes her so unique.
Tell us about yourself.
I’m Fanta Celah, an international artist, vocalist, and jewelry designer of Jamaican descent. I’ve been featured in many prominent magazines for my unique beauty and hair design. I have been around the world and exhibited my art in Africa and the United Kingdom. I have a permanent display in the African Union, the National Museum of Ethiopia. I studied and performed with the legendary jazz musician, Phil Cohran and I’m looking forward to my music video release. I’m also known for carrying on the antique Egyptian tradition of Henna tattoos, reiki energy healing, and acting. I’ll be starring in an Afrofuturistic film, entitled, Bar Star City, which was written and produced by Ytasha Womack.
What is it about what you do that makes you unique?
My style is ancient and Afro-futuristic. I wear designer African clothes, my ornate crystal jewelry designs, and my cosmic hairstyle. I feel that we should all delve into our own personal styles, and carry ourselves like royalty. As within, so without. My natural lifestyle governs my entire life. Through these pure intentions, I create all of my healing art forms. My hairstyle portrays the spiraling universes. My paintings empower the viewer and heal the chakras. My crystal jewelry adorns you royally, and heals the mind, body, and spirit. My ‘celestial blossoms,’ henna designs are like energy portals, and receive reiki energy healing during the application. My music is metaphysical and positive in nature, and it ranges from jazz to world music, reggae, Afro-beat, spirituals.
How did you get started in your profession?
I’m a second-generation artist. I take after my father, Dean Brooks. I always knew that I would be an artist. I grew up in a Wisconsin small town and was trained in my profession since the very beginning. I sold my first portrait at the age of 16. I picked up the art of henna tattooing around the same time. When I moved to Chicago, I exhibited at the south side community art center and other galleries at the age of 21. I attended Columbia College and started dabbling in jewelry design. I reconnected with my music in April 2008 when I auditioned to perform at the Sun Ra Tribute with Phil Cohran and the Rainbow Ensemble.
What would you say is the most challenging aspect of what you do?
I find it challenging to balance all of my professions. Jewelry designing and manufacturing is time consuming. I have to schedule time to paint, amidst raising three children single. So I’ve learned how to prioritize.
Who are the biggest personal and professional influences in your life?
Yosef Ben Israel inspires me. Phil Cohran, is truly the world’s greatest musical mastermind that inspired generations. My clients and collectors inspire me. Diarra Diaby, a renowned Malian African art historian and dealer and my children, my third generation artists, YHWH RA-JAH, Dzenkesh Ma’at, and Nation Ade.
Tell us about the last book you read. Why did you choose it?
“The Most Powerful Book of Affirmations Ever Written,” by M.D. Sheldon T. Ceaser. This book programs your subconscious mind through auto suggestion. It directly addresses physical, mental, emotional programs.
What encouraging words do you have for our readers?
Self love plus confidence equals success and is the key to a prosperous life.
Learn more about Fanta at her website www.fantacelah.com
See some of her work in the gallery below.
