Denzel Fleming, known by his stage name "nonotwashington," is an accomplished artist and marketing professional whose work spans several creative disciplines, including spoken word poetry, photography, and creative services. He is now based in Charlotte, North Carolina after stimulating growth in Greensboro, North Carolina, where he has made a significant impact in both the local arts and business communities. Here's a deeper look into his journey and contributions:

 

Early Life and Influences

Fleming was born in Kinston, NC, and spent much of his childhood in Jacksonville, NC. His exposure to a variety of music genres, including neo-soul, black gospel, and hip-hop, shaped his artistic style. At 16, he began rapping, which later evolved into spoken word poetry around the age of 20. His diverse artistic interests were nurtured by the cultural influences around him, setting the stage for his future endeavors.

 

Education and Development at NC A&T

Fleming pursued higher education at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T), where he earned a degree in marketing. During his time at the university, he began to gain recognition for his artistic talent in photography and poetry. His involvement in the local arts scene in Greensboro grew significantly, and he became a regular performer at venues such as the Artist Bloc, a creative hub for artists. This venue played an essential role in his development as an artist and a community leader.

 

At NC A&T, Fleming was able to blend his artistic passions with his business skills, which allowed him to explore how marketing and creative work intersect. His exposure to both the creative and business sides of the industry helped him shape his approach to the arts, balancing artistic freedom with strategic marketing techniques.

 

Professional Career and Leadership

Fleming's professional life is marked by his role as the Director of Creative Services at Pixel Pushas Creative Group. In this position, he leads various creative campaigns and manages client relationships, working with public figures, community leaders, and other creatives. His role involves overseeing projects that highlight both artistic vision and practical execution. His leadership extends to managing artists, including 16Phenom and @nonotwashington, further demonstrating his ability to mentor and guide other creatives in the industry.

 

Fleming's work in marketing and creative services shows how he integrates his love for the arts with business acumen. He is known for his ability to craft campaigns that resonate with audiences, often rooted in deep cultural relevance and community engagement.

 

The Artist Bloc and Community Impact

A central aspect of Fleming's work is his involvement with the Artist Bloc in Greensboro, a venue that serves as a sanctuary for Black creatives. He has described the Artist Bloc as an essential space for artistic expression, and his own work within the venue has played a critical role in the artistic community. Through his poetry and performances, Fleming became a known figure at the Artist Bloc, advocating for the importance of space where creatives could express themselves freely and without limitation.

 

Fleming’s work at the Artist Bloc, alongside his commitment to other community initiatives, has made him an influential figure in Greensboro's cultural landscape. In a statement about his journey, he reflected on how his role as a performer and advocate for artistic space helped him establish a reputation as a significant voice in the local creative scene.

 

Public Performances and Artistic Presence

In addition to his professional endeavors, Fleming continues to be involved in public performances. For example, in September 2021, he headlined an open-stage event at Elsewhere Museum in Greensboro, cementing his place as a prominent figure in the city’s artistic scene. His ability to merge his role as an artist with his community-building efforts makes him a unique and influential figure in North Carolina's creative economy.

 

Artistic Vision and Personal Philosophy

At his core, Fleming’s work is rooted in artistic expression, and he is committed to using his platform for meaningful storytelling and cultural enrichment. His artistic vision is not just about performing or creating art for the sake of it, but also about using his work as a tool for cultural commentary and social change. He is deeply involved in creating spaces where marginalized voices can be heard, and he continually advocates for the visibility and empowerment of creatives.

 

His stage name "nonotwashington" reflects a personal philosophy of challenging traditional norms and pushing against societal expectations. This identity, combined with his marketing savvy and leadership in the creative community, positions him as an artist with a unique voice who is continually striving to uplift both his peers and the broader community.

 

Summary

Denzel Fleming’s career exemplifies a balance between artistic passion and strategic leadership. He has successfully blended his talents in spoken word, photography, and other creative fields with a strong foundation in marketing and community engagement. His work as the Director of Creative Services, his performances at venues like the Artist Bloc, and his commitment to North Carolina's creative community reflect his dedication to artistic expression and empowerment.

 

Fleming’s ability to serve as both an artist and a leader within his community continues to shape the cultural fabric of North Carolina and inspire fellow creatives to blend art with business in innovative ways.