Braylon Gorman

That's what being a Creative Warrior is all about. Collaborating with like-minded creative who share the same dreams and desires. Braylon Gorman , Instructor , The Art Institute of Atlanta

Was there a defining moment when you knew you were destined to become a creative professional?

I was exposed to the entertainment and fashion industries as a young child and teenager by my parents – this carried over to adulthood and was the major factor in my decision to become a creative professional. My initial plan was to become an entertainment attorney but I wanted to venture out and explore more of my creative side. That’s how I got into fashion. I’ve worked with top names in the field of fashion and entertainment, developed fashion campaigns for Los Angeles Apparel Mart and other companies, and worked on theatre set designs, and music video treatments. This all has afforded me the opportunity to travel the world, meet exciting and innovative people, and, now, share my experiences in the classroom.

How do you weave your professional background into the classroom experience?

As an educator in the creative fields, it is important to expose students to real-world industry experiences. I’ve found that students appreciate it. It’s exciting for me to help bridge the gap between the reality of the “business of fashion” and the glamorous side.  Exposing my students to off-campus visits to the Atlanta Apparel Mart, guest’s speakers, and opportunities to work with industry professionals brings me joy!

I also teach students the importance of building their brands and make sure they understand that building a brand requires hard work, commitment, dedication, and a lot of hours working for free.

What class assignment exemplifies your approach to teaching and mentoring?

All the classes I teach are designed to provide students with practical and real-world experiences. I assign projects that are viable components in building their brands, their portfolios, and providing them with resume builders. All of this enhances their academic experiences and prepares them to compete in an ever-changing global marketplace.

How does collaboration contribute to students’ success—particularly when students from various programs work together?

That’s what being a Creative Warrior is all about. Collaborating with like-minded creatives who share the same dreams and desires helps them all to become trendsetters and innovators within their respective fields. When students work together, it not only promotes teamwork, it develops skills that industry professionals look for in their hiring decisions – like communication, commitment, and time-management.

What’s the most important thing you impart to students to help them succeed in class and the real world?

I am always sure to be honest and upfront about the expectations of being a creative professional, the ups and downs of the fashion and entertainment industries, and the importance of remaining vigilant, dedicated, and commitment.

Anything else?

It is an honor to be a teacher and a leader of the Fashion Marketing & Management and Fashion Design programs. I have been an instructor at The Art Institute of Atlanta for 9 years. I enjoy teaching, meeting new students, reconnecting with returning students, and sharing my professional expertise with my colleagues and students!