By Hannah Marion Namukasa
Metro FM’s popular morning program is set to host a special guest this Friday, November 22nd, 2024, at 8:30 AM East African Standard Time. Carlos Walker, an artist, author, inspirational speaker, and chronicler of life stories, will join Kabuye Ronald Viyeno, co-host Winnie Bulya, and Deejay Scofield for an engaging discussion.
Carlos Walker, 42, hails from Halifax County, Virginia, where he grew up as the youngest of six children. A rising star in the art world, Walker has gained recognition for his unique and thought-provoking work, most notably his acclaimed exhibit “Walk a Mile In Our Shoes.”
In this powerful collection, Walker uses his art to depict the black experience, offering a raw and unflinching look at the African-American journey from slavery to the present day. The exhibit seeks to evoke empathy and understanding by mirroring the struggles of African-Americans to audiences, especially those who may be unfamiliar with the depth of the experience. Walker’s work is designed not only to provoke thought but also to inspire conversation about race, history, and social justice.
During the interview on Metro FM, Walker will discuss his artistic journey, the inspiration behind his groundbreaking exhibit, and his mission to raise awareness through his paintings. He will also share insights from his role as an author and motivational speaker, shedding light on his broader efforts to chronicle life stories and spark meaningful debates around contemporary issues.
Listeners are invited to tune in for an inspiring conversation that promises to explore art, activism, and the ongoing journey for equality.
WHO IS CARLOS WALKER
Carlos Walker, 42, a budding artist was born and raised in Halifax Co. Va. to Hilton and Inell Walker, Carlos being the youngest of 6 children.
Carlos has been drawing since the early age of eight. He remembers his high school art teacher, Ms. Ferguson as his earliest supporter. Despite his early discovered talent, Walker did not envision a career in art for himself and chose to put his talent to the side.
At the age of 24, Walker found himself facing a 20 year mandatory minimum sentence. After serving 13 years, Walker was released and, in the midst, found his way back to art. While incarcerated, he curated 5 exhibitions, in addition to writing a book based on his personal art.
His greatest work of art is arguably “Walk a Mile In Our Shoes”, because of its unique portrayal of the black experience. In creating this exhibit, he seeks to show a mirror effect to Caucasians to provide raw insight into what the black experience looks like. Mr. Walker’s pictures have been created with the sole intent to invoke thought in all who refuse to understand the plight that African-Americans have endured in their experience from slavery up until now.
Carlos Walker has had several opportunities to showcase his work at locations including Baltimore, Florida, “Busboys & Poet,” and even the World Trade Center. As of today, he has sold over 10,200 books which also includes artwork he produced while incarcerated of his book called “What If”. Due to Carlos being so involved in building his presence while sharing his testimonies, a majority of his sells took place right in front of the African American Museum based in Washington, DC.
Mr. Walker has also created his second book, “The Autobiography of the Butterfly, How the Caterpillar made it through. Which he has sold and partnered with with people to donate to youth to help with the literacy rate of the youth.
