Reggie LeFlore

How and why did you become an artist?

I grew up in the 90s, deeply influenced by the cartoons, comic books, and street art of that time. I wanted to create much of the same, even though my family and friends pushed me away from these things that “wouldn’t make me any money” and more toward athletics instead – things that would give me scholarships to schools and whatnot. But why they spent time playing basketball or competing in track meets, I stayed indoors, teaching myself how to draw, paint, and learn graphic design – making the best of my situation since I couldn’t afford formal classes. That explains the “how.”

As for the “why,” it all began with my early experiences in making visual art. I’ve used it for therapy, to bring my own fantasy stories to life, and as a form of personal expression. Later on as I became an adult, I began to understand the profound impact that art has on our surroundings, culture, my own ancestry, etc., and decided to use that as a means to create the works I make today.

What medium(s) do you work in?

Spray paint/aerosol, acrylic paint.

How long have you been working as an artist?

I’ve been a full-time freelance visual artist since the summer of 2018, but I’ve taken on canvas and mural commissions since the start of my experience with spray paint/aerosol in 2012.

What are some of your biggest inspirations as an artist?

My inspirations have varied over my lifetime, but the cultures surrounding street art have had the biggest impact and inspiration on my art. I enjoy the storytelling aspect and varying perspectives that people have on these kinds of works, as well as the many unique styles and aesthetics that are seen in each of these murals and public art pieces. My early inspirations – which mostly came from video games, comic books and anime – still influence how I make art to this day, despite me switching to aerosol and creating things with more of a street art flair.

What is your connection to Northeast Minneapolis?

I rented studio space in Northrup King during the years of 2017 – 2019, and I’ve collaborated on a mural project and a few group shows there.

How does Art-A-Whirl benefit you as an artist?

The platform that Art A Whirl provides has been an incredible way to connect with other creatives and arts organizers, and I like how I can tailor this benefit to as much or as little as I’d like.

Any good stories or memories of an experience at Art-A-Whirl that you can share? What stands out?

Some of my best memories of Art A Whirl involve all the individual talks I’ve had with its attendees. It’s a great way to converse with others about their perspectives on art, as well as a great opportunity to inform and educate others about the work I make.

What do you wish more people knew about the arts scene in Northeast Minneapolis?

I wish folks knew more about the BIPOC artists here and the ways they can support us and our work.

Art-A-Whirl and NEMAA turn 30 years old in 2025. Can you believe it? What changes have you witnessed?

It’s grown SO MUCH since I first experienced it in 2014, which was a year before I moved to Minneapolis. During my years at Northrup King from 2017 to 2019, the experiences with crowds have a bit overwhelming, but now that I’m in my own studio that’s a bit lesser known and off the beaten path, I’m curious to see how much of this crowd I can manage.

Why is art important in our community?

Art is a vital element in our communities because of how it serves as a record of our experiences in Northeast Mpls. In times of pain and hardship, art can either reflect this same energy or act as a form of healing in spite of it. Art can also serve as a means of representation or resilience when our communities seem invisible or ignored. 

Can you imagine a world WITHOUT the arts community in Northeast Minneapolis? How would the community be different?

Without an arts community in Northeast Mpls, there would be nothing but cookie cutter condos and businesses there – many of which would be owned and ran by out of state real estate firms who have zero experience with forming lasting communities with the folks that live here.

What are your hopes and dreams for Art-A-Whirl, NEMAA, and/or the Northeast Minneapolis Arts District in the next 30 years?

I’d like to see more of an activation of public art, mural projects or outdoor art demos.

If you could make one change in Northeast Minneapolis, no matter the cost, what would it be?

I would like to see a series of murals that reflect the diverse backgrounds of the communities that exist in Northeast Mpls, with members of these communities working and getting paid to do so. 

Tell us again why you love being an artist and what your work brings to the community.

I love being an artist because it allows me to share my appreciation for street art, illustration and my many other influences with others.