Joycelyn Hairston, Former Construction Engineer, Shows Off Her Colorful Side

1) Tell us about your Buck. 

I've done two. One is called Atlanta Women's Haunts. It is reminiscent of all things Atlanta that Atlanta women have cherished over the years. It represents a lady who is out shopping. She's adorned with pearls. [The style is] late 1950s. She's got a Rich's shopping bag and a JP Allen package. The other is called "Beloved" By All of Atlanta's children. She is wearing a pink uniform with a white apron.

 2) What inspired you to approach your Bucks this way? 

My father's family was the third family to settle in Dekalb County, so we have strong roots to Atlanta. Both sets of grandparents and my extended family come from the South. I too cherish Atlanta. These are very important components of what has made Atlanta what it is today.

 3) In general, where do you find the inspiration for your art?

All the inspiration for my art comes from people I've known, or place or things that I've known. They are very respectful southern heritage themed.

 4) How did you become an artist?

I am a construction engineer by training. I have a Bachelor's and a Master's from Clemson University. It's a world that's full of creativity and creation, but it's all black and white in straight lines. The art world has allowed me to use bright, vibrant colors. It's a colorful outlet. It's also a way to run into friends and people. 

 5) Is there anything else you'd like to share with Buckhead Patch readers? 

I have an entire collection called Atlanta Women's Haunts and individual pieces are available. I'm also open to people making suggestions for additions to my collection.

This article is the latest in a series of Buckhead Patch conversations with the creators of the "Buck" statues stationed around the neighborhood. Do you know other creative people in Buckhead who deserve to be profiled? Email us with the details!

Catch up on our other recent Behind the Buck profiles: