In a vibrant celebration of Deaf culture, we shine a spotlight on 30 remarkable living Deaf artists. This curated list, initially revealed daily leading up to the release of “YOU DON’T KNOW EVERYTHING, JILLY P!”, showcases the diverse talents and contributions of Deaf creators across various artistic disciplines. Explore these incredible individuals who are shaping the art world and enriching Deaf culture.
Cece Bell: Award-Winning Author & Illustrator
Starting our journey is Cece Bell, a powerhouse in middle grade literature. @CeceBellBooks is celebrated for numerous titles, most notably “EL DEAFO.” This Newbery-winning book is an autobiographical story about a Deaf rabbit who navigates classroom experiences with unique “superpowers.” Discover more about her work at cecebell.wordpress.com.
Burton Bird: Cree Hoop Dancer Extraordinaire
Witness the captivating artistry of Burton Bird, a Cree hoop dancer. Born Deaf, Burton connects deeply with the rhythm of the drums through vibrations felt in his feet. He is a passionate advocate for Deaf First Nations individuals in Northern Saskatchewan. Experience his mesmerizing dance in this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2oIC2M41gdY.
Linda Bove: Sesame Street Icon & Deaf Theater Pioneer
If you grew up watching Sesame Street before 2002, you’ll recognize Linda Bove. This celebrated actress was many hearing viewers’ first introduction to sign language. Beyond Sesame Street, @DeafWest Theater co-founder Linda Bove has been instrumental in Deaf theater. Relive her Sesame Street moments here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=262zTsGTEiE.
Bernard Bragg: National Theater of the Deaf Co-Founder & Visionary
Bernard Bragg’s impact on Deaf culture spans over six decades. As an actor, writer, director, and co-founder of the National Theater of the Deaf, he has been a pillar of the community. In 1967, Bernard was part of a groundbreaking special that brought sign language to television audiences. @Bernat83 Learn more about his legacy at http://bernardbragg.com.
Jade Bryan: Trailblazing Filmmaker and Advocate
Meet Jade Bryan, a filmmaker who broke barriers as the first Deaf Black woman to earn a filmmaking BFA from NYU’s Tisch School. @DeafShowRunner is not only a documentary filmmaker and TV writer but also a dedicated activist. Explore her powerful sizzle reel for “The Two Essences”: https://vimeo.com/247215977. Visit her website at http://jadefilms.com.
Jules Dameron: Prolific Filmmaker & #DeafTalent Advocate
Another filmmaking talent on our list is Jules Dameron. With an extensive filmography, Jules has directed numerous projects, including ASL music videos featuring Deaf performers. She is also the creator of the widely used hashtag #DeafTalent, promoting Deaf representation in media. Watch the trailer for “Reverse Polarity” and explore her work at http://julesdameron.com.
Sean Forbes: Deaf Hip-Hop Artist & DPAN Co-Founder
Get ready to groove with Sean Forbes, a Deaf hip-hop artist hailing from Detroit. @seanforbes delivers powerful performances, like his video “Watch There Hands”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7lQx1f5lEFo. Sean is also the co-founder of the Deaf Professional Arts Network (DPAN), supporting Deaf artists in the industry. Discover more at http://deafandloud.com.
Jazmyne Huerta: Photography Capturing Beauty
Jazmyne Huerta’s photography beautifully captures individuals in their essence. A self-taught photographer who honed her skills at NTID, Jazmyne is based in Southern California and available for various photography needs, from weddings to baby photos. Learn more about her business in this spotlight: https://www.dailymoth.com/single-post/2017/09/08/Deaf-Business-Spotlight-Jazmyne-Huerta-Photography.
Antoine Hunter: Dancer, Instructor & Festival Director
Meet the fabulous dancer and dance instructor Antoine Hunter. @thegreatdancer is not only a dynamic performer but also the founder and director of the Bay Area International Deaf Dance Festival. Feel the rhythm with Antoine and explore his dance world at https://www.realurbanjazzdance.com/mr-antoine-hunter.html.
CJ Jones: Actor with Decades of Experience
You might recognize CJ Jones from recent roles like the Hulu series “Castle Rock,” but his acting career spans decades. From his early appearance on “A Different World” in 1991 to today, CJ Jones has consistently graced film, television, and theater. Explore his extensive career at https://www.cjjones.com.
Ilya Kaminsky: Award-Winning Poet of Silence and Sound
Poet Ilya Kaminsky is celebrated for his award-winning collection “Dancing in Odessa.” His recent work, “Deaf Republic,” further explores themes of silence and communication. @ilya_poet, who moved from the former Soviet Union to the US in 1993, now teaches at San Diego State University. Discover his poetry at http://www.ilyakaminsky.com.
Christine Sun Kim: Sound Artist Redefining Perception
Christine Sun Kim challenges conventional perceptions of sound as a sound artist. @chrisunkim has showcased her work at prestigious venues like MOMA in NY and Hull House in Chicago, and even on the TED Talk stage. Engage with her thought-provoking exploration of sound here: http://youtube.com/watch?v=6FI5Z_.
Ayisha Knight-Shaw: Poet, Multi-Media Artist & Educator
Celebrating poet, multi-media artist, and teacher Ayisha Knight-Shaw. @deafayisha made history as the first Deaf poet on HBO’s Def Poetry Jam (Season 4). She also contributed to Deaf representation by creating the name sign for the Deaf character Derek in a book. Connect with her at deafayisha.com.
Ann Clare Le Zotte: Author & Advocate for Children’s Literature
Ann Clare Le Zotte is a writer, librarian, and a powerful advocate for quality children’s literature, particularly with Deaf representation. @annclezotte’s YA novel, “T4,” is critically acclaimed. Read about it and find a sample here: https://kellyrfineman.livejournal.com/370130.html. Look out for her upcoming MG novel, “SHOW ME A SIGN.”
Ella Mae Lentz: ASL Poet & Signing Naturally Co-Author
Experience the heartfelt ASL poetry of Ella Mae Lentz. Her poem “To A Hearing Mother,” subtitled for accessibility, is deeply moving: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzpbYDCpyWg. ASL students will recognize Ella Mae as the co-author of the renowned “Signing Naturally” series.
Ellen Mansfield: De’VIA Artist Exploring Deaf Experience
Ellen Mansfield is a De’VIA (Deaf View/Image Art) artist whose work delves into Deaf experiences, audism, and language access. Through painting, ceramics, and other mediums, she powerfully conveys these themes. Her retrospective exhibition was recently on display in DC. Find more information at http://www.ellenmansfield.com/events.
Marlee Matlin: Academy Award Winner & Deaf Advocate
Marlee Matlin is not only an acclaimed actress but also a prominent advocate for the Deaf community and an author. @MarleeMatlin holds the distinction of being the only Deaf Academy Award winner to date. She has appeared in popular shows like “The L Word” and “Dancing With the Stars.”
Brandy Mimms: Dancer, Choreographer & Instructor
Spotlighting dancer, instructor, and choreographer Brandy Mimms. Brandy’s choreography is dynamic and expressive, as seen in her piece inspired by Hurricane Katrina, performed at UA Little Rock: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohnfbCT9u_I. #DeafTalent
Chella Man: Genderqueer Artist & Advocate
Chella Man is a young, Deaf, genderqueer artist using his platform to share his experiences. @chellamanart has documented his transition on YouTube and spoken at TedX events. Learn about his perspective on Cochlear Implants: https://www.them.us/story/man-made-why-im-proud-to-be-deaf-and-queer-af.
Awet Moges: Graphic Novelist Exploring Mythology
Awet Moges is the graphic novelist behind “Pantheon: Heterotopia,” a thought-provoking work that explores the relationship between gods and mortals. Order “Pantheon” from your local indie bookstore or online: https://www.indiebound.org/book/9781944854041. #DeafTalent #30DeafArtists
Sara Novic: Award-Winning Novelist & Professor
Sara Novic is the author of “Girl At War,” which received the ALA Alex Award for adult fiction with youth appeal and has been translated into 13 languages. @NovicSara is also an Assistant Professor of Creative Writing at Stockton University.
Prinz-D: The First Deaf Rapper
Meet Prinz-D, recognized as The First Deaf Rapper. @PrinzD2010, from Alabama, began rapping at the age of 9. His videos, like this one https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtyGeW2kIHo, incorporate snippets of ASL into his hip-hop. (Note: this video begins with a gunshot.)
Kerri Radley: Zine Creator of Deafula
Kerri Radley has been the driving force behind the zine “Deafula” since 2010. Through eight issues, Kerri explores her experiences as a Deaf individual raised in the oralism method navigating a predominantly hearing world. Explore her zine at http://www.deafulazine.com/.
Carlisle Robinson: Comic Creator & Illustrator
Comic creator and illustrator Carlisle Robinson is passionate about representing Deaf people and issues in their art. @carodoodles creates endearing comics, including their recent series “Growing Up Trans.” Read their work at http://www.carlisle-robinson.com/.
Nancy Rourke: Expressionist De’VIA Painter
Nancy Rourke is an Expressionist painter who boldly utilizes primary colors in her De’VIA art. @nancyrourke has been painting since childhood and became deeply involved in De’VIA (Deaf View Image Art) in 2010. Discover her art at https://www.nancyrourke.com/.
Shaheem Sanchez: Dancer with Silky Smooth Moves
Shaheem Sanchez’s dance moves are incredibly fluid and captivating. He also shared his dance skills with his younger brother, SYTYCD winner Kida The Great. Witness Shaheem’s talent here: https://youtu.be/htTVFymlbGE.
Millicent Simmonds: Breakthrough Actress of Wonderstruck & A Quiet Place
Millicent Simmonds has gained widespread recognition for her roles in the films “Wonderstruck” and “A Quiet Place.” AP recognized her as a Breakthrough Entertainer of 2017, and Time lauded her “Wonderstruck” performance as one of the year’s best. Hear Millicent speak about Deaf representation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f5zDWZQX47Q.
Storm Smith: Filmmaker & Advocate for Social Change
Filmmaker and advertising art director Storm Smith channels her passion for social change into her work. She also dedicates her time to teaching at Deaf Film Camp for youth. Don’t miss the dynamic basketball trick battle she filmed, “Chrissa x Samaya”: https://www.officialstormsmith.com/.
Rosa Lee Timm: ASL Music Video Creator & Storyteller
Rosa Lee Timm is celebrated for her ASL music videos and engaging storytelling. Enjoy her delightful ASL rendition of Katy Perry’s “Roar”: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsI4_jrkorg. @catchrosa also performs “The Rosa Lee Show” and stars in ASL Films’ “Versa Effect.” #DeafTalent
Wawa: Rapper Bringing Deaf Hip Hop to the Forefront
Concluding our #30DeafArtists celebration is rapper Wawa! @diphopwawa creates catchy music and visually stunning videos like “Bounce With Me!”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PeABxQf25nk. Explore more of his music, including his digital album “Deaf: So What?” at https://www.diphopwawa.com/. #DeafTalent
These 30 Deaf artists represent just a fraction of the immense talent within the Deaf community. Their diverse artistic expressions enrich our world and powerfully advocate for Deaf culture and representation. Explore their work and celebrate the vibrant contributions of Deaf artists!
