Nikkolas Smith on Artivism, Disney, and Finding Your Voice
Earlier this year, we went live at SXSW EDU 2024 with artist and activist Nikkolas Smith for a powerful conversation about using creativity to inspire change. Hosted by PhillyGoes2College, the interview gave students a look into how art can become a career—and a tool for justice.
“I make art that speaks to the broken bones of the world,” Nikkolas shared. “I want my work to inspire people to make things better.”
Nikkolas talked about his journey from Houston, Texas, to Hampton University, where he studied architecture. College helped him mix his love for art and math, which led to a job at Disney Imagineering, where he helped design theme parks around the world.
But even while working at Disney, Nikkolas was making art at night—he called them “Sunday Sketches”—weekly digital paintings about justice, love, and hope.
“I was teaching myself how to paint on the computer,” he said. “And I was making art about real problems people face, trying to help others care and take action.”
His artwork caught attention online and soon, publishers and filmmakers started reaching out. Nikkolas left his job at Disney to become a full-time artist and author. Since then, he’s created books like Born on the Water and The Artivist—stories that help children see themselves in books and believe in their own power.
“I want kids to see their hair, their skin, and their dreams in the stories,” he said.
🎨 During the conversation, Nikkolas shared some powerful advice for students:
✨ Follow your passion, even if it feels scary
🗣️ Use art to speak up
📲 Put your work out there—you never know who’s watching
🌱 You don’t have to have it all figured out—just start
Nikkolas reminded us that everyone is an artist in their own way. Whether it’s drawing, writing, rapping, cooking, or dancing—your creativity can help change the world.
🎥 Want to watch the full SXSW EDU conversation? Click here to view on YouTube
