Illustrator, author, and ARTivist Nikkolas Smith creates thoughtful images that spark much-needed conversations around issues of social justice. From Michelle Obama to Janet Jackson, his work has been recognized by some of the most well-known names on the planet. You may have seen his heartfelt portrait of George Floyd in the media after Floyd's murder by police in mid-2020, or his illustration of Martin Luther King Jr. in a hoodie to express solidarity shortly after the killing of Trayvon Martin. This week on the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast, we dive into Nikkolas Smith’s creative process and how through his ARTivism, he hopes to make a difference and advocate for the voiceless. The impact theme of season two is strong in this episode as Nikkolas discusses using his art to make the future a brighter place for his son.  This episode is brought to you by Walter Foster Publishing. Enter their Win a Book Deal contest for the chance to work with this premiere art and craft publisher. Follow Nikkolas Smith's work on his website, Instagram, and Facebook. Order your copy of 1619 Project: Born on the Water Did you know that we're on YouTube? Watch your favorite episode now! Follow us on Instagram to see some of the visuals we talked about in today's episode. We want to hear from you! Leave us a listener voicemail and subscribe to our newsletter so you can submit questions for upcoming interviews. You'll find everything on podcast.mymodernmet.com.  Want to support the artists we feature and the podcast? Check out books by our guests on the Top Artist Bookstore. My Modern Met Store is offering a special discount for Top Artist listeners. Get a 10% discount on our entire curated selection of creative products when you enter the code TOPARTIST10 at checkout. Read more about Nikkolas Smith's work and the projects we discuss: Heartfelt Tributes to Chadwick Boseman Show What 'Black Panther' Means to Black Kids Artists Are Paying Tribute to the Death of George Floyd Through Moving Illustrations Illustrator Uses Art to Give a Voice to the Black Lives Matter Movement [Interview]