Today we’d like to introduce you to Ferrell Phelps.
Ferrell, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey in the art field started when I was very young. I spent my time drawing and painting, embracing creativity at an early age—something I believe I inherited from my mother, who was also artistic, especially with fabric and sewing. For years, I set art aside after discovering photography. I bought a camera on clearance at the Target store where I worked, and it became my new paintbrush. Working with colors, lighting, apertures, and f-stops, combined with a creative mind, led me in a new direction.
As I delved into photography and opened my studio, things began falling into place. Building a business and attracting clients became crucial for success, and I learned many lessons along the way, from triumphs to challenges. I’m still in the photography business, though the industry has changed significantly. Staying relevant amid evolving technology, apps, and smartphones—where everyone feels like a professional photographer—has its challenges.
Adapting and branching out is essential to staying current in any field. During the COVID pandemic, when businesses shut down and boredom set in, I revisited the art I had left behind for years. It’s now gaining recognition and acclaim, much like my photography. My artwork consists of one-of-a-kind pieces made from various mediums, including fabrics, foam materials, jewels, color prints, and more. With Art by Ferrell, my goal is to create thought-provoking works that invite viewers to study intricate details and interpret messages based on what they see and feel.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Of course, there are always struggles in any business, from keeping it afloat to attracting new customers and maintaining a fresh appeal. There’s no guarantee your art will sell, and you’ll inevitably encounter people who say they’ll buy but never follow through—it’s just part of the game. Honestly, it can be discouraging at times. Getting the right exposure is crucial, but it’s definitely a challenge.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My website is a fantastic way to explore my work, especially my photography. I specialize in capturing the best version of you as a client while fostering a comfortable and relaxed environment. Through my art, I strive to create pieces that resonate with everyone, whether eclectic, modern, or contemporary—there’s something for all tastes. I may jump around a bit, but that’s just the artistic side of me (smiling).
I’m often recognized as a celebrity photographer and artist, known for projects like The Freedmen’s Town Documentary Project and The Skin I’m in photo exhibition. I’ve been blessed to have many celebrities in front of my lens, such as Kelly Price, Destinys Child, Shaquille O’neal, Rachel Ferrell, actress Vivica Fox, Delta Burke, gospel artist James’s fortune, Queen Latifa, nephew Tommy, with legends such as Nacy Wilson, Dionne Warwick and many others. I have authored several books in the Skin I’m in series “Skin Deep” the Skin I’m in which shares beautiful artistic images of uniquely beautiful people and their stories of living in the skin their in . The coffee table book is now available in hard back and can be purchased from my website Ferrellphelps.com I co-own The Skin Model and Talent Agency along with Sonyia baring Graham who is an incredible visionary, entrepreneur and businesswoman, The agency couldn’t exist without her. The agency has gained global recognition for its impact and for creating opportunities for uniquely beautiful individuals, including those who are adaptive, have albinism, vitiligo, or autism and much more.
Do you any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
My favorite childhood memories aren’t about art but the simple joys—sleeping at my granny’s house by the window fan, getting the best sleep ever, or going on road trips with my parents. I’d sit in the back seat while Barry White and the Love Unlimited Orchestra played, or George Benson’s “Breezin'” filled the car various sounds of instruments, windows down, enjoying every moment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ferrellphelpsproductions.com
- Instagram: @ferrellimages84
- Facebook: Ferrell E Phelps on Facebook
- Other: https://www.skiniminmodel.com
Image Credits
Credit Ferrells photography and Art by Ferrell
