Meet Julian “JUJU” Guyton | Artist & Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Julian “JUJU” Guyton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Julian “JUJU”, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I think that risk should always be calculated, however you shouldn’t fear taking risk in life. For me, I tend to be seen as somewhat of a “risk-taker”, however without those risk I wouldn’t be where I am today. Those risk have not only taught me valuable lessons on how to move and operate amongst different people and settings, but also has opened so many new doors for me that if I hadn’t had faith and just took that “leap”, wouldn’t be there.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I believe that my use of color is what really sets my art apart the most; I use bold, vivid colors, with various line depth to create my pieces. Not only that, I feel that my subject matter, mixed seamlessly with use of text sets me apart from any other artist. I credit the “start” of my success from traveling across the US, showcasing my work in various “Art Battle” competitions; a live showcase where 12 artist paint live in order to create works of art in 20 minutes in front of a live crowd. The first time I ever won was so surreal. I flew to San Francisco, CA in January 2022 to participate in “Art Battle” and I advanced to the final round, but did not win however. The following night, I had to fly to LA, where this time around, I did win. From that, I advanced to the LA city championships where I won, again and set/broke a few records. I then advanced to nationals. Throughout that journey, I met so many artist and various opportunities arose. It’s crazy to think back on this at times, because without that competition I don’t think I could’ve realized the level of impact that my art has on the world. Not only that, I was at a very dark point and almost didn’t make it to competition. This is why I feel that taking risk and having faith and God plays a big role in my life because without that extra bit of faith, who knows where I’d be. I know that I never will take the opportunities I have for granted… Fast forward two years, and I’ve traveled to so many places, have had group shows out of state, been featured in the WNDR museum… this is only the beginning which surprises me everyday as well. Overall, I want people to know that it is definitely possible to make it as an artist. Success is a level of your own judgement and people should be allowed to do the things that make them happiest the most. I’ll be honest, the path isn’t always easy, but neither is life. If it was, we’d all be doing the same thing, and I think that’s the beauty of life is that we aren’t. Don’t be afraid to take risk. Don’t let your upbringing or surroundings dictate your life. You are in control of the story that is written. With my artwork, I hope that I can continue to inspire those around me and just show that these things are possible. .

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Out of all my travels, no matter what, my home town Chicago will always hold a spot in my heart as the best city in the world. Really, there is so much to do here, I think a typical day (with me at least) would be exploring the secrets that the city offers that not many know about. Various adventure spots, a day in Wicker Park to shop and bar hop, then just various restaurants from the West Side of Chicago as well as other spots in the city. Chicago is very hard to explain, as that it’s more of an experience than something I could put into words, but I know that it is a place unlike any other.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a shoutout to God first. Throughout this journey, it’s not always a clear path ahead, and I have to have a lot of faith in Him that what is for me will come. I would also like to shoutout my family; they are always very supportive and I feel they are just as excited to see where my artistic abilities will take me. Lastly, I want to shoutout my collective, brand, just my way of life, [MNGO.S]; just like my slogan (“whatever you want it to be”), this way of living has continued to also open doors because life is truly that, whatever you want it to be.

Website: https://mngos.bigcartel.com

Instagram: @mngos_juju

Twitter: @mngos_juju

Other: TikTok: @mngos_juju

Image Credits
Kristina Rodriguez