Skip to main content

Header Navigation

Features

11 Questions with 2026 USA Fellow Raven Jackson

Meet the Filmmaker, Poet, and Photographer

A black and white photo of a woman smiling.
Author -Jessica Gomez Ferrer Date -04.16.2026
I desire to create work speaking to the emotions and sensations I struggle to find words for.”
Raven Jackson

When do you work best? 

I used to work best at night, but more and more I'm finding inspiration and my strongest writing moments in the morning.

How has your practice changed over time? 

I've tuned in more to how I best work, and intentionally created rhythms for my routine that speak to and support that. I'm also allowing more time for rest.

What fuels you? 

The process of bringing an idea into form, into reality, is ceaselessly thrilling to me. It's really special to look at a picture or frame of a film, and remember when it existed as only a thought.

What material do you work with and why? 

I work with language, the moving image, and photographs for the most part. No matter the medium, I'm very in love with the task of creating evocative imagery.

How do you get unstuck? 

I give myself time away from whatever I'm working on to do something fun, which usually opens up space for inspiration or a new idea. Alternatively, I sometimes sing as I find it gets me out of my head and into my body.

Where do you find inspiration? 

The rhythms, cycles, and flow of nature deeply inspire me.

Who has influenced you and your work? 

Family members, stories passed down. People I love and know in the American South.

Who do you hope to influence? 

Those who may find sparks of inspiration in my films or journey. Hopefully, it expands what they believe is possible for themselves in some way.

Why are you an artist? 

I desire to create work speaking to the emotions and sensations I struggle to find words for.

What advice would you give other artists? 

Be curious about yourself. Trust yourself.

What question would you like to ask other artists? 

What is the most pleasurable part of the creation process for you?