Spotlighting the stupendous class of Young Guns 20
Nearly 100 renowned industry professionals made up the jury for Young Guns this year. And after revealing the 84 finalists, it is finally time to unveil the 31 winners who make up the class of Young Guns 20.
Every year, we add another class of young talent from all over the globe to the exclusive Young Guns community. The winners of Young Guns 20 are your next project directors, animators, designers, editors, illustrators, artists, photographers, storytellers, coders, and writers. So this is your cue to follow them on Instagram immediately– because they are our industry’s future legends after all.
In two weeks, the winners will fly into NYC from around the world to celebrate their accomplishments, make new friends, have a few cocktails, and take home their official Young Guns Cube. We can’t wait to celebrate with them at Sony Hall on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, at 6:30 PM– and we hope to see you there too!
Before the party begins, we took the time to get to know each of our winners so you can read up on the highly creative individuals who make up Young Guns 20.
ERIC HART JR.
PHOTOGRAPHER
Based:
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK
Hometown:
MACON, GEORGIA
When did you first hear about Young Guns?
I first heard about Young Guns through NYU. We received a number of emails sharing art opportunities and Young Guns was featured in one of those emails.
Congrats on the win! What made you enter this year?
I decided to enter as I was approaching college graduation and was somewhat in a panic about my future as an artist. I submitted every art-based application that I could find that seem to amplify the works of upcoming creatives.
How did you decide which six pieces were best to enter and truly reflected you and your work?
I honestly stuck to the works that mean the most to me. All of the works I submitted I value greatly not only for aesthetic value, but also context. I would like to think that shines through in the selection.
What went through your mind when you discovered that you won, especially knowing how difficult it is to make it into Young Guns?
The process of winning just feels like validation that this is the right career choice. Sometimes it's easy to question if you're on the right path and if people respond to the work you are creating, but this reassures you that this isn't a mistake. It feels great.
How would you describe your personal brand in one sentence? Now, try defining it in three words.
I would describe my brand as a polished exploration of power and beauty– particularly for folks who look and love in the same way as I do. Powerful. Polished. Thoughtful.
Who are some of the biggest influences on you and your work and career? Who may have had a hand in mentoring and supporting you?
I have two incredible mentors, Dr. Deborah Willis and Zun Lee, who have inspired me in a plethora of ways. I am forever thankful for their wisdom and guidance. I find inspiration from a wide range of people. In terms of photography, my biggest inspirations are Gordon Parks, Tyler Mitchell, Dana Scruggs, and David LaChapelle. Outside of the world of photography, I am inspired by people who are masters of their craft: Spike Lee, Marlon Riggs, Beyoncé, Oprah, and Rupaul. I often watch interviews and read about these artists and question how their methods and approach to their craft can apply to my line of work.
Name a professional dream that you have yet to fulfill — hey, maybe Young Guns can help propel you in that direction! Who would you love to collab with in the future?
I have so many artistic goals and aspirations. I think my short-term goals include shooting a magazine cover, putting out a successful coffee table book, having a solo exhibition, and writing more. My long-term goals include producing and writing television, writing and producing a successful musical film, and lastly branding and marketing the role of a photographer in a way that we've yet to see. As far as who I would like to work with– Parkwood, Issa Rae, Tate, Vogue, i-D, and RocNation.
"My short-term goals include shooting a magazine cover, putting out a successful coffee table book, having a solo exhibition, and writing more. My long-term goals include producing and writing television, writing and producing a successful musical film, and lastly branding and marketing the role of a photographer in a way that we've yet to see."
This is YG20, but what do you imagine you’ll be up to when YG30 rolls around in 2032, both personally and professionally?
In 2032, I hope to be a household name based on the creations I have put into this world. I will have the freedom and resources to create whatever my heart desires. I will have accomplished my goal of expanding outside of just the world of photography and finding success in a number of artistic mediums. Personally, I hope I have a partner by then, and maybe a dog as well.
Come party with us and celebrate all the Young Guns 20 winners on Wednesday, November 16 at Sony Hall!
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