DARRIAN PICKETT

WRITER + ADJUNCT PROFESSOR

WASHINGTON, D.C.

5 favorite musical artists of all time? 

1. Drake

2. Kehlani

3. Healy (lesser known artist, but still fire!)

4. J. Cole

5. Big Sean.

   Big Sean is a new edition to my top 5. The last time I was asked this question, I remembered how often I listened to him in my formative years.

What inspires you? 

My life experience growing up as a queer pastor’s kid inspired my creative non-fiction style. The relationships with people I’ve encountered in my life make me want to write. Regardless of how long the relationship lasts, people are magical and they make me feel safe enough to do, feel, and write about the things that scare me.

What advice would you give to your younger self? 

Creative advice: Writing will save your life.

Personal advice: No matter what anyone says, it’s okay to be who you feel you are on the inside.

What industry blogs/websites/podcasts do you enjoy?

For the ins and outs of traditional publishing: Basic Pitches (podcast), Kay Boogaard (blog), Daily Justiss (blog)

For my freelance interests: Screenrant, IOCD blog, Queer Relationships zine by Meg John-Barker

What do you think the future holds for people of color in creative industries?

Our stories, experiences, and faces illuminated for the world to see.

What is your dream job?

My dream job is writing and directing a tv series or movie based on my memoir. Think of Michaela Cole and “I May Destroy You,” but it’s me and my story. I’ve always dreamed of bringing my words to life and I hope I get the opportunity at some point.

What skill(s) would you develop if you had more time? 

I used to confidently take graphic design jobs and would watch tutorials from other creators. I’m not as confident as I used to be in my skills as a designer, but I want to improve.

What is the last thing you learned? 

I teach college courses at the community college in my hometown. This summer one of my students taught me how to fix the air conditioning in my car.

What are you working on right now?

I’m always working on my memoir (my dream project), but I’m currently working on reviews of my favorite albums so far this year! I’m also trying my best to write about how Covid has affected my OCD.

If you could talk to your favorite creative for an hour, who would it be? Why?

I’d probably talk to Drake for an hour because even though he’s a music artist, he’s honestly one of my favorite writers, too. I’ve always admired how songwriters use words in their songs to tell stories, and Drake does it well. If anyone knows Drake, tell him I’d like to pick his brain!

What advice would you give to creatives of color looking to pursue their passion full-time?

Self-doubt will always creep in and make you feel like your passion isn’t worth the time and effort, but as long as you have a story to tell, it’s worth it!

How do you keep your creative drip going? 

I spend time with people who make me feel happy to be alive, I listen to my favorite albums or watch my favorite shows. Sometimes I get discouraged thinking if I don’t tell my story right now, it will be too late. But being around my people and listening to stories makes me hopeful and motivated.

Contact: darrianpickett@gmail.com

Check out Darrian’s portfolio for more of her work!