Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1458429
Blossom happy Artist Randy H has a deep love for Macon and his family, and his passion for positivity is powerful. "I think it is important for parents to understand that you have to create a space to encourage your children's art," he said. "Big shout out to my mom; she is so special. She's always encouraged my artwork and trusted my vision. My dad did an amazing job, too." Randy graduated from American InterContinental University with a degree in Fashion Design and Marketing. An eastside Macon native, he traveled for 17 years, but decided to come back during the pandemic. "The pandemic year really struck gold for my art," he said. "The message that I give my artwork is something people needed to hear like, 'Hey; I love you. Keep going.'" "Blossom happy" is the theme for his work, located at the bridge at the intersection of Clisby Place and Roff Avenue in Macon. "Macon has so many places that are vacant. I wanted to create beautiful messages that could speak to the world and the city," he said. "We all have circumstances. My message speaks to being uplifting." Now an art teacher at Northeast High School, his very own alma mater, he's proud of the culture in East Macon. They didn't have an art class there for five years, so his return has blessed future artists and vacant spaces in Macon. "The eastside is a mecca of memories, love and a little bit of struggle. Even with my students now, I see bits and pieces of the past," he said. Graffiti, his art love language, "was never really invited here, but it can show the pain of the people and also uplift them," he said. Calling the Cherry Blossom Festival "a beautiful time and space," his painting creates an inviting space. "My character is full of life and love. I just need my folks to be happy — whether you're black, white, Hispanic, everything. I need all of us to be happy," he said. "We are the gatekeepers of our day; we've got to have the right mindset. I've seen the worst of the worst but people still chose to be happy. I paint the times, and we're in a tough time. I'm just trying to get you to talk about the happy thoughts. We can start focusing on new ideas, new behaviors, things that matter." Modeling his sock and clothing line are Ayanna Hoskins, J'Mya Mann and Alysia Hazel. The models said their favorite festival events are the ones at Carolyn Crayton Park and the parade. From the food and the rides to the venders and the music, there is truly something for everyone. 'MACON HAS SO MANY PLACES THAT ARE VACANT. I WANTED TO CREATE BEAUTIFUL MESSAGES THAT COULD SPEAK TO THE WORLD AND THE CITY.' — RANDY H 80 maconmagazine.com | FEBRUARY/MARCH 2022