In the Studio with Photographer Jermaine Gibbs

Jermaine Gibbs is a local photographer, currently exhibiting here at CAC. Native of Baltimore City, this photojournalist’s passion evolved at a very early age. His greatest passion, “street photography” led him to paths across the globe capturing moments of natives executing daily activities. Astoundingly, many were flabbergasted to see and appreciate these moments in time not only intriguing, but analogous in the eyes of the viewers’ everyday tasks as the neighbor next door. Although captured images of other people from other countries and continents could seem dismal to some, Gibbs’ gifting’s proves to be more than what we’ve come to perceive as average. The captured glimpses of others makes evident his appreciation for what many deem as “every day ordinary”. For Gibbs, this “every day ordinary” is nothing short of an art form… divinely given by the Creator.

In addition to capturing eclectic montages, Gibbs has had the distinct honor of photographing many of the world’s most renowned and historically elite luminaries from political to dignitaries in secular and religious arenas. There are no barriers for this photo journalist, he leaves no stone unturned to seize every possible memorable moment for his clients. His work can be viewed around the world to include the “More Than a Picture” and the “National Museum of African American History and Culture” in Washington, D.C. Not only is Jermaine well-traveled, he has also come to be known as a philanthropist with a new found passion for mission work in Fiji; Ghana; Africa; and Australia and is a self-published author.

Moreover, Jermaine is the head of a “Restorative Justice Photography Program” established in 2018 based in Washington D.C. and is the founder of “Hope Missions” a nonprofit that provides access to clean drinking water and education across the continent of Africa.  Since 2010 Gibbs has been traveling around the world grasping hold to glimpses of various cultures and making provisions for others to see through the lenses of the unknown and make them comparable to those that we see every day.

Jermaine is a son, a brother, a dad, a partner, and a public servant.

Here’s Jermaine talking about his art, process and experience:

What art do you most identify with? I most identify with photojournalism. Photography has always been an escape for me and I want my audience to be able to see beyond the image and see themselves in the story.

When did you realize you were an artist? Probably at the age of 13. I always wanted to create something afterall that’s what artists do. My grandmother gave me my first 35mm camera when I was 13 and once I saw my first developed picture I knew I had created something different.

How did you get into your art/side-gig?  After an injury at work that led to a major surgery my life shifted in a way that I couldn’t have planned. I’m not sure why I picked up a camera but it became my safety blanket. I was able to exist in spaces and hide behind my camera with very little pressure to engage directly with the people in the room. I was able to take in the room, focus on the energy and emotions of the people and freeze each moment into an image.

What are you currently working on? I am working on expanding my business to include brand strategist as I help more brands tell their story through imagery in a captivating way.  Creative hub coming soon.

What food, drink, song inspires you? “Excess Love” by J.J. Hairston is inspiring because the lyrics remind me that despite my shortcoming Jesus will always love me in abundance. I love the blend of American and African culture which is something I try to do in my own work.

What memorable responses have you had to your work? People always say that when they look at my images they feel like they are there “wherever there is” and that they can feel the emotion/energy of the people or person photographed.”

What’s your favorite quote? Luke 1:37 For with God all things are possible.

What role does the artist have in society? Documenting history in its purest form for future generations to see. “When we change the way we see; everything we see will change.”

Is there any local artist that Inspires you? If so, who and why? Yes, Michael McCoy because he is great at documenting all of the major events that have taken place in the MD/DC area.

Why art? It allows me to give others a voice when I struggle with the words to say.

Anything else we should know about you?

My work will be featured in an exhibit at the Vedere Press Studio in Indianapolis in April.

For more information regarding Jermaine Gibbs, check out his work on Instagram, @j_uniqueeye or www.jermainegibbs.com, or facebook: www.facebook.com/JermaineGibbs

Visit the gallery

The Hal Gomer Gallery is open to the public by appointment only. Please contact CAC to schedule your appointment.  The exhibit will be available until March 30, 2021.