We had the good fortune of connecting with Timothy Chester and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Timothy, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
My Favorite Affirmation?
Simply this: When in doubt, Create.
Express your thoughts and feelings within your creative means.
Color those areas that need volume.
Shade in those spaces that need filling.
Explore your doubts, the unknown, the what if’s, and challenge them.
Make something out of your wildest dream(s).
Just do what feels best, and be proud. Because it’s yours.
Because in the end, you’re only as good as you say/think/know you are.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have to say, it wasn’t easy figuring out my route in being a creative, but it’s been very productive.
Over the years, I’ve contributed and collaborated with fellow artists, both local and across the country.
I’ve learned to go with my gut and trust my emotions when it comes to sharing my vision, and so far it’s been fruitful.
What I want the world to know, is that, a it takes is time and effort. Don’t overthink it. It’s yours before it becomes anyone else’s.
Being creative and sharing it with the world is courageous. And it’s a huge start.
Do what makes you feel happy and stay consistent.
‘When in doubt, Create.’
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I think the first place we’d start is Downtown Baltimore, MD.
I currently reside in Silver Spring, MD, a Suburb just outside of DC, but I frequently travel home to enjoy some of the most amazing and exciting parts.
First day, we’d go grab food at Land of Kush, in Midtown. A Black Owned Vegan Soul Food Restaurant with a lot of flavor and wide variety and delicious food.
Next, Fells Point. Essentially the Waterfront or Port Area of the city. Lots of Bars, Storefronts, and Restaurants to choose from.
My favorite place in the world is the Sound Garden. A Record Shop with a lot of Character and many hidden treasures.
We’d hit up the bar next door, The Horse You Rode in On Saloon. Amazing drinks and Atmosphere.
Historically, it’s one of the last places poet Edgar Alan Poe was seen alive.
There’s a lot of history throughout Baltimore that can explored and is pretty fascinating. Especially in the downtown waterfront area.
Later on in the week, we would travel further into Midtown or Charles Village. The Walter’s Museum of Art is pretty splendid. During the spring/summer (pre pandemic), there’d be a lot of Art and Music theme events going throughout the season.
One of the biggest festivals for example, is ArtScape. Quite literally one of the largest free outdoor art festival one the East Coast.
There’s also the Maryland Film Festival, The African American Festival, lovingly referred to as AFRAM, HONFEST, an Homage to the more ‘outlandish’ 50s style fashion, a la Hairspray (Famed Director John Waters still lives in Baltimore til this day), Baltimore Pride Festival, The Baltimore Book Festival, The Mini Hip Hop Museum and too many more to name!
Last, as the Weekend draws closer, I’d suggest going to the Ottobar on Howard St. for a show for local and traveling musicians, and then of course, The Crown in Station North.
One of the very few places to see various local acts, comedians, DJs, and Karaoke legends, it’s the stomping ground for many amazing parties and artist showcase.
One of the most exciting and ground breaking events is, VERSION. A ‘Queer Dance Party hosted every 1st Saturdays by Kotic Couture and DJ Trillnatured.
Across the aisle (quite literally) in the next room, you hear some of Baltimore’s Best Hip-Hop, R&B, and Alternative Music, 808s and Sadbois (or just 808).
A juxtaposition to the Aforementioned event, it brings together some of the best the ‘Baltimore Music Community’ has to offer, and gives many budding artists and DJs a chance to perform live and master their craft.
These two events I believe are an excellent way to cap off an otherwise thrill of a weekend.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to first give a huge shout out to Benjamin Banger for recommending me for a shout out initially. He’s one my favorite people and fellow artist.
I also have to give a huge shout out to my Wife, Christie. She’s literally my biggest fan and soundboard. She’s an amazing person and inspired me to continue creating when I doubted myself. Love you much, Ladybug!
Website: Peacerussie.bandcamp.com
Instagram: @PeaceRussie
Twitter: @PeaceRussie