#Motiv8Mondays – Raven Nicole

Welcome to Spectacular Magazine Independent Artist of the Week, the latest Spectacular Magazine weekly feature. North Carolina, and more specifically the Triangle, has long been considered to be one of the hippest areas in the country; there is no shortage of talent and/or adoring, loyal fans. The independent music and arts scene is flourishing here and Spectacular Magazine wants to highlight those talented individuals (or groups).

Each week Raven Nicole Gibbs (professionally known as Raven Nicole), founder of the non-profit organization Motiv8, Inc., will feature an up-and-coming artist of various genres. She will afford them the opportunity to share with you who they are, how they got started, who influenced them and to tell us about any upcoming projects. The artist will also share video, audio and/or photos of their work.

Since this is her first installment of the Spectacular Magazine Independent Artist of the Week series, it’s only right that she introduces herself as the first Spectacular Magazine Independent Artist of the Week she’ll highlight. Spectacular Magazine is excited to bring you this feature each Monday! #Motiv8Mondays

Phyllis Coley, Publisher

Who are you?

I am Raven Nicole Gibbs and I am a professional dancer and choreographer, as well as founder and Executive Director of Motiv8, Inc. We are a Triangle based nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring artistic expression, cultivating positive behaviors and preserving the arts in disadvantaged areas, ONE person, ONE count, and ONE community at a time. 

What is your genre? 

My genre is dance and choreography. I think my style would be considered a “fusion” of many styles. 

How did you get started?

I began my dance journey at the age of 4. I have been able to dance and/or choreograph for several artists and companies including Ginuwine, Calvin Richardson, the Sacramento Kings, GiGi Torres, Tyler Perry, and Snoop Dogg and have also had the opportunity to act as Director for UNC’s first co-ed dance team, UNC Kamikazi, and lead instructor at both Bravo Academy of Dance and Faulkners Dance and Gymnastics. 

Who are your musical or artistic influences?

Prince was my favorite entertainer EVER! Stylistically, he was so unique and aside from that, he was a huge philanthropist.  

Other artists that inspire me include Raven Wilkinson, Baba Chuck Davis, Beyonce, and Missy Elliot. 

What Motiv8s (motivates) you?

The fact that what I do is literally changing lives! I am not only teaching students about choreography and dance, I am helping them to discover self love, mindfulness, and confidence. It is truly a beautiful thing!

Do you have any upcoming projects, shows, or appearances? What are your next steps?

Motiv8 begins regular classes with the Town of Cary in the fall. One of the 6-week courses is dedicated to adults and the other is dedicated to high school aged students. I am also still touring on and off throughout the United States so you can also catch me on a stage near you!

For more information on Raven Nicole, visit www.wemotiv8you.com

To be featured as a weekly Spectacular Magazine Independent Artist of the Week, contact Raven Nicole at info@wemotiv8you.com