Photos via: Twitter/ @artlessjay
When 23-year-old artist Natalage Jay Davis reached out to filmmaker Matthew Cherry via Twitter to see if there was any way she could help with his new animated short film “Hair Love”, she probably never imagined that it would turn into a life changing opportunity – but it did. Davis was unable to contribute to Cherry’s project monetarily, so she offered her talents.
Dear @MatthewACherry, I don’t have money, but I’d love to help with Hair Love in any way I can. Sincerely, a young black girl with big hair. pic.twitter.com/JYJsJkKY17
— Jay Davis (@artlessjay) July 16, 2017
While contemplating about how they could collaborate, Cherry decided to use his platform to support and share Davis’ amazing artistic skills with his 74,000 followers. He also encouraged others working in the creative space to hire Davis for a project.
Want to give @artlessjay a boost. If anyone could utilize her talents or hire for a project please do. Love her work & we’re gonna collab. https://t.co/Uz5wpKmTbB
— Matthew A. Cherry (@MatthewACherry) July 16, 2017
This isn’t the first time the filmmaker has highlighted the work of a young Black creative. Back in May, Cherry shared a video created by high schooler Isaiah Howard, and pushed for people in the film industry to hire him for his impressive editing and directing skills. The tweet connected Howard with “Get Out” director Jordan Peele himself.
For Davis, Cherry’s one tweet, with the help of writer and editor Marie Bouvier, led to literary agent, Brent Taylor, signing her the very next day. See how the incredible opportunity unfolded below.
Hey Brent. I totally vouch for @artlessjay & think she is worth representing. Gonna work w/ her. I’m an ICM repped director. Thanks Marie!
— Matthew A. Cherry (@MatthewACherry) July 16, 2017
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I just shot her an email this morning. 🙂
— Brent Taylor (@btaylorbooks) July 16, 2017
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Just saw and responded to your email Brent!! Very excited
— Jay Davis (@artlessjay) July 16, 2017
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Say hello to my newest client, y’all! Jay is amazing & I’m so stoked about her beautiful, bold picture books. https://t.co/6mm7Zm4hpl
— Brent Taylor (@btaylorbooks) July 17, 2017
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I GOT AN AGENT Y’ALL!! A huge thank you to everyone, ESPECIALLY @btaylorbooks and @MatthewACherry for believing in me!! I’m so speechless https://t.co/AkPipNJ6Sz
— Jay Davis (@artlessjay) July 17, 2017
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Davis later tweeted: “$15 to my name and an unwavering dream is all I had two days ago. To see that dream being realized….I can’t even begin to describe this.”
Thank you Mr. Cherry for continuously using the power of your platform to share and support the work of young artists who look like you. Congratulations, Natalage!