The Panther

Issue date: 4/13/05 Section: Student Superstar

Media Credit: Otis Clayborne

Prairie View is home to many great talents and among them is 22-year-old Jamil Hooper. A junior communications major from the Alamo City of San Antonio is known on the Hill for his outstanding artwork. Hooper said that he has been drawing all of his life and credits his craft as his number one passion in life.

When asked who inspires him he cited the following, "Leroy Campbell, Leonardo Davinci, and Michelangelo have influenced my work. I have tried to model myself after greatness such as theirs." Additionally, he accredits his ethnic background of African American and Filipino as a major inspiration. " Coming from a diverse background, I have been trained to work in different mediums" said Hooper. However he recognizes his main influence as African American art, describing his style as "traditional urban graffiti."

Hooper hopes that his artwork will reach and inspire all types of people. " I try to reach everyone (with my art), the appeal is not just for young African Americans, but I try to reach all ethnicities and ages. I try to put myself in it so that they can feel the art." Some of his artwork has reached all corners of the yard. As a contestant in the fall 2004 "Mr. Ten" Pageant his artwork was displayed in the talent showcase.He has also done murals and portraits for students, as well as art work for Greek organizations. Some of his work walks the yard every day as body art.

Hooper's dreams are not just local. After graduation, his long-term goals are to go into advertising. "I want to be famous for my style of art. I just want to be known," said Hooper.

It has been said that Prairie View produces productive people, and Jamil Hooper is a shining example of that. Look out Panthers, because Hooper is sure to not only impact local life, but with his talent it is sure to soon be seen nationally.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools