Artist Amiri Jamil Daniel Richardson-Keys draws inspiration from the essence of the Black family, respecting and valuing their contribution to his art.

So it’s no surprise that Venture Richmond commissioned his artwork to represent the 36th Annual 2nd Street Festival.

He credits his mother, a clinical social worker and a single parent, for who he’s become — as an artist, husband and father.

Although he had role models in a short-term stepfather and the men in his Highland Park church community, he recognizes the sacrifices his mother made and her profound influence on his artistic journey. When he describes his mother, who designed jewelry, made doll clothing and sketched, he has nothing but praise.

“My mother was amazing,” Richardson-Keys said. “She had such a gentle spirit. She was loving, nurturing and compassionate to everyone.”

Richardson-Keys and his wife co-founded Artists Revealed Through Service (A.R.T.S.), a community center in Midlothian that fosters artistic exploration and personal growth.

Established in 2009, ARTS offers diverse classes for all age groups, from children to seniors. The couple left their corporate careers to dedicate themselves to this community-focused venture.

The couple lives in Chesterfield and partners with Richmond and Chesterfield schools for after-school art programming and mentoring. They have six children, and the two oldest work alongside them at the ARTS Community Center. An artistic and mentorship component runs throughout the activities and programs — whether it’s the homeschool collective, child care, before and after school care or summer programs for middle and high schoolers.

“My wife and I grew up through Parks & Recreation in Richmond,” he said. “We wanted to create a space where our kids could experience the same thing — people who look like them in a space where they could be seen for who they are culturally and creatively.”

Meet the community and family-focused 2024 official 2nd Street Festival poster artist and this week’s Personality, Amiri Jamil Daniel Richardson-Keys:

Occupation: Co-owner/operator of The A.R.T.S. Community Center.

Date and place of birth: March 6 in Richmond.

Where I live now: Chesterfield.

Education: Bachelor’s in fine arts, VCU; pursuing a master’s in art therapy from George Washington University.

Family: Wife, Cindy Richardson-Keys, six children, a daughter-in-love and two grandsons.

The 2nd Street Festival: A celebration of Black culture’s past, present and future in Richmond. The weekend is filled with creativity, love, connection and rich experiences for the entire family. It celebrates the love that Jackson Ward and Richmond fed our ancestors and continues the legacy of enriching our elders and children.

Dates of the two-day festival: Oct. 5 and 6. 

Application process to become a commissioned poster artist for the 2nd Street Festival: Each year, the Venture Richmond Committee selects an artist from various creatives nominated by community members. The chosen artist is then commissioned to create a piece of artwork that gives their interpretation of the culture and spirit of the 2nd Street Festival.

Inspiration for my poster artwork: My memories of the 2nd Street Festival date back to when I was a child. My mother and aunts would take my brother, cousins, and me every year.

It was a time when we were exposed to the Black culture and history of Jackson Ward. I remember African dancers and drummers marching through the crowds as a child, offering the energy of our African ancestors.

My reaction to being named the official 2024 2nd Street Festival artist: As a native of Richmond, I was overwhelmed with joy and gratitude. It is an honor to create a piece of art representing a monumental event.

My creative process: Coming up with a final sketch was not difficult because of my experiences attending the festival for the last 30 years. I wanted to represent movement and music in the piece.

Timeline: It took me about two weeks to create the final piece.

Committee guidelines: To create from within and express my interpretation of the 2nd Street Festival.

How my background influences my art: Being raised by a single Black woman allowed me to see Black women’s resilience, profound beauty, and strength and understand the importance of family.

This experience inspired me to use Black women and children as my subjects —paying homage to the Black family.

How I hope my art inspires others: I hope to encourage dialogue, healing, and empowerment within the African American community, reinforcing the importance of unity, love and self-discovery. Art is a powerful tool for sparking change and affirming our worth, and I am honored to contribute to this ongoing conversation.

Where Richmonders can engage with my art outside of the poster: They can view my work in exhibitions around Virginia and at amiri.life.

How I start the day: I start my day by writing in my gratitude journal, followed by meditation and prayer, which have been essential to my practice, accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee. I also like to go to the gym at least two or three times a week.

Three words that best describe me: Love, creative and valor.

Best late-night snack: Skinny Pop.

On my playlist: Common, PJ Morton and Buju Banton.

A quote that inspires me: “Any form of art is a form of power. It has impact. It can affect change. It can not only move us; it makes us move.” — Ossie Davis.

The best thing my mom taught me: My mom told me to be my authentic self and never compare myself to others.

Most influential person: My mother, aunts, and grandmother profoundly impacted me by instilling core principles and values that give us strength and encouragement to believe in ourselves and know who we came from.

Favorite visual artist and why: Kerry James Marshall is among the many artists I appreciate. His work and what he stands for as an artist inspired me to become the artist that I am. Inspirational book: “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” by Alex Haley, a story of the self-discovery and self-determination of a young Black man’s journey to become a man of purpose and courage.

Next goal: Complete the master’s degree program in art therapy at George Washington University and use those skills to help creatively heal the community.