THE MUSEUM OF LIGHT: Just as an alchemist transforms led into gold, is there an element of transformation in your creative expression? How does this process for you, connect to that of an alchemists?
DJ MARS: The alchemist and the DJ play similar roles. The combining of existing elements, in my case sounds to create what hasn't been heard before. All of this makes DJing super exciting to me.
THE MUSEUM OF LIGHT: Artists are often labeled as "stars.” Just as a star radiates light and the planets then reflect this light. Do you see your work behind the pen or behind the lens, as a reflection of this light?
DJ MARS: I would say the light in some instances can be described as inspiration. In part, the relationship between the community and the music industry is inspiration. I would say my influence is based on positive influence. I am a college graduate who, in part shaped the DJ culture in Atlanta. DJ'S followed the lead that I set and took it in a positive direction as well. That is a clear example of the planet reflecting the light of the star.
THE MUSEUM OF LIGHT: When an artist is not "creating" it is often labeled a "creative block." Where do you find the creative spark? What inspires your work and does it require a sense of courage to create from this unknown space?
DJ MARS: My creative inspiration comes from a multitude of different places. Being a DJ is relative to being a producer,or scientist or a cook. A DJ takes bits and pieces of records to combine them to make a coherent thought. In our line of work that coherent thought is a party. We use records to shape emotions,and if used properly they songs evoke strong emotions. Great DJ's are like great orators,whether the speech giver is a politician or religious figure. For me I rarely hit a creative block because there is so much music for me to play. A new record gives me,the DJ, a new direction to go. Each audience gives me a new opportunity to alter my set,so that its fresh and new. In my line of work creativity is endless.
You can also find this story at RESPECT Magazine.
The Museum of Light is curated by:
Billy Johnson Jr., Adell Henderson, Joslyn Rose Lyons, Rafael Casal, Matt Smith, Malik Buie.