We had the good fortune of connecting with Gabriel Turnquest and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Gabriel, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I’m from The Bahamas, was born in Nassau, and lived in Grand Bahama for six and a half years. Between transitions, I changed schools a lot, which meant readjusting every few years. Luckily my mom would always support any recreational endeavors of mine, whether it be sports, music, or something out of the ordinary. Being raised in an environment that supported individuality helped set the stones for me to explore and discover my love for artistry, specifically in the field of photography and cinematography. Most importantly, I appreciate the importance of a community that I developed through my childhood experience, and I get to seek and create that through my work every day.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I usually thought of art in the traditional sense, but after some time of discovery, I felt a possibility with this medium. As I grew and developed my skills & style, I leaned more toward capturing people as subjects. I enjoyed the experience of bringing out the essence of a person through the lens and telling a nonverbal story. My editing style, though it has varied and experimented through the years, my intention is usually to create a sense of nostalgia, sort of an inviting and wilful experience transmuted into a familiar feeling. I’ve had the privilege to work in spaces where I got to see people perform at the level that I aspire to be. That coupled with the love and support of those around me, is what set me forth on this track. There have been moments of unsureness and struggle to find my voice, and while it’s something I’m still building upon, it’s important to have confidence and to believe in something that can drive you when it’s difficult. I’ve learned to never sell myself short, and that balanced prioritization of mind and body is necessary. On the upside, I’m most excited about my growth as a creative and the connections I get to make through the process. I have a lot more to learn and as I do I hope I get even better at sharing and creating that sense of community and trust.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The movie theatre is a definite visit with VIP tickets. Clifton Pier for some sighting. Of course, they would have to try a famous cup of conch salad from a local vendor, as well as some of my favorite food spots. Check out a few art galleries and maybe go-karting if there’s an event.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to give thanks to Ereisha Mackey for recommending me, I appreciate it! Great person, artist & model. I’d also like to thank my Mom, Nadia and my closest connections and friendships for supporting and loving me, for the guidance and understanding, it means a lot.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabetquest

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-turnquest-723107196?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gabetquest

Other: Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gabetquest?_t=8lKhwilLfN8&_r=1

Image Credits
Gabriel Turnquest

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