Meet Jordan Betten | Artist

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

Hi Jordan, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk is inseparable from creativity and starting a business. They go together.

As an artist and entrepreneur, risk is inherent in everything. We have to embrace this unknown and turn it into opportunity.

The risk is really the challenge. The puzzle that must be solved to reach the intended result. Like cracking the code to unlock the potential of your idea.

Being a life long artist comes with many risks – emotional, financial and professional. It is a never ending road.

I’ve learned to trust my instincts and ask for advice from wise ones and friends. If you have passion for whatever you do….the truth in that will guide you. Miracles will happen, if you take the right risks. And believe in your journey.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art reflects the streets – in an abstract style. I like decay and overlap. My art is reflection of my urban surroundings – the grit and the things I see around me – the walls, the trucks, the urban segregation – are fundamental to my painting style.

my paintings are stories – Prophecies – of the times, both the light and dark….hints of hope and renewal.

I like turning forgotten or discarded elements into something of value and meaning.

My career started in NYC’s fashion world, designing leather pieces for my brand *Lost Art*.

We did custom leather – designing and creating – one of a kind pieces, pants, jackets, accessories and art / design projects.

Lenny Kravitz collected for many years. We made wings and costumes for Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows. And became well known among press and stylists.

No, it was not easy. Being an artist is a life long dedication…that could be a long trip.

You overcome with persistence and belief. Keep creating…..keep moving forward.

Starting brands today is almost more about technology than product.

You need to know both your product and the skills of SEO and digital marketing.

I just set up a website for JB Buckles and Belts, www.jbbucklesandbelts.com and am trying to learn more about the digital side.

If anyone reading this is a digital marketing genius, please contact me – thanks.

The brand represents my evolution – leather and metal – JB Buckles and Belts is a legacy that began in 1997 with Lost Art.

What started with custom leather garments for rock stars, performers, and bold personalities is now a handcrafted belt buckle and leather belt brand – still rooted in craftsmanship, originality, and the rebellious spirit of individual style.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Faena Hotel Spa for a meditation with Agustina Caminos

Upper Buena Vista for a coffee

Freehand for a burger and cool people

Wynwood Walls for an art walk around

Chef Creole in Little Haiti for fried fish

The Miami Tropical Botanic Garden in El Portal

The Beach to go swimming

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The Little Haiti “Yard of Dreams” Store – which no longer exists.

Two years ago, I moved into the sprawling, compound of warehouses, semi structures and huge space.

The back warehouse is my art studio – with high ceilings and a huge sliding door.

Here there are no rules – the outdoor space is ideal for my metal work and welding – the indoor space is my painting studio – with plenty of room leftover to shoot videos for my my YouTube channel – Rasta Choppers – with the help of a friend, I’ve built two choppers.

The eclectic characters, who used to work here – inspired my art – with their stories, energy and wisdom.

This place has given me opportunity – to grow – and continue onward.

Every artist needs space….to create, experiment and store your works.

I give thanks for this place.

Website: https://www.jordanbetten.com

Instagram: @jordan_betten

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568592347620

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rastachoppers

Other: https://www.JBbucklesandbelts.com