Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Sims.
Hi Justin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Darlington, South Carolina, where my love for drawing started as far back as I can remember. I believe the root of my creativity comes from my mother, who passed away when I was only three weeks old. Though I never knew her, I feel that her unselfishness and commitment to being an overall good human being shaped my artistic DNA. Throughout grade school, art became my outlet. I would draw on any blank space I could find, whether in art classes or academic papers. It felt natural, like it was in my blood.
My father, Whitfield Sims, was a creative director by trade, working in New York as a play writer, producer and actor for many years, before relocating to South Carolina and producing countless theatrical productions at the Florence Little Theatre in Florence, SC. While I wasn’t drawn to theater back then, I have since developed a deep respect for the craft as an adult. My interests leaned more toward motion pictures, and that drive has stayed with me throughout my life.
After school, I joined the military, but my love for art never faded. Years later, I picked up a camera, invested in a computer, and rediscovered layers of my creativity. I began working as a photographer in nightclubs, capturing the nightlife scene, and learning photo editing along the way. I also dove into graphic design, making flyers for the clubs. It was in this environment that I connected with local music artists, which led to photo shoots and music video production. I essentially became a one-stop shop—handling everything from cover art to video shoots.
Still, I craved more, so after my military service, I enrolled in the LA Film School to refine my skills. It was there that I discovered that the set life wasn’t for me. I wanted to be the artist who brings everything together in postproduction. Editing became my true passion because it allowed me to piece together stories and bring them to life.
After finishing school, I had a job lined up at a postproduction house in Los Angeles, but the pandemic changed everything. The film industry came to a halt, and 2020 became a year of profound loss, especially with the passing of my father, my greatest supporter. His death hit me hard and left me at a crossroads. I took up government contracting work in 2021, but it didn’t fulfill me as an artist. When Chadwick Boseman passed later that year, I felt my perspective shift. Life is too short to settle, especially when you’re not pursuing what’s in your heart.
During this journey, I also found a way to become a better version of myself—both as an artist and as a husband and father to my children. I strengthened my connection with my siblings and my overall family, which became an essential part of my growth.
I returned to my art, creating canvas graphics, and was surprised to see how much they resonated with people. I began making portraits of loved ones who had passed away, which became my way of healing from my own loss and offering the same to others. By the end of 2022, I came across Artificial Intelligence. As a graphic designer first, I saw AI as a tool to enhance my work, and in February of this year, I launched my “Give Them Flowers” series during Black History Month. The response was incredible—it resonated with so many people, and my canvas sales skyrocketed. Soon, I found myself working with well-known celebrities.
Six months later, I expanded the series by adding animation, and that took things to a whole new level. Today, I’m working on music tours and collaborating with established artists and music companies. My journey has taught me that life is unpredictable, but if you stay consistent and true to your intentions, incredible things can happen. I am deeply grateful for my support system and the people who continue to appreciate my work.
My goal has always been to inspire, and I plan on continuing that mission in the future.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in the editing and media field, bringing a diverse skill set that includes graphic design, videography, VFX design, and AI engineering. My work is distinguished by a deep empathy for human life, which informs every project I undertake. This connection to the human experience allows me to create art that resonates emotionally, no matter the medium. I’m especially proud of how selfless I’ve been in helping elevate my culture and community, working to change the perspective on AI in a massively artistic way. My genuine love for all forms of art, combined with technical mastery, enables me to tell compelling stories and leave a lasting impact.
How do you think about happiness?
My family brings me an immense sense of happiness, grounded in the love we share for one another. In some of my darkest times, when everything else seemed to fall apart, they were there—steadfast and unwavering. Their love has been a light, guiding me through moments of doubt and hardship. With a deep spiritual awareness, I’ve come to realize that while it’s easy to rely on our own selfish motives, true fulfillment lies in the connections we nurture. Over time, I’ve understood that my family and close associates are all I truly need. Their presence, love, and unwavering support serve as constant reminders of what really matters.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.j-slayer.com
- Instagram: Jslayart
- Facebook: Jay sims
- Twitter: Jslayart
