We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle Thornton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Michelle, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
One thing about the film and entertainment industry that many people may be unaware of is the fact that many of the well known celebrities, directors, producers, and so on have been in the industry working their way up the ladder many years before the public even recognizes or knows their name. Consistency and hard work pays off every time. Do not quit! If you fail at something, readjust and try again.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a creative, I am involved in many different avenues. I am a mixed media artist that paints African American inspired pieces focused on uplifting people of color, so that they can see the beauty in themselves. This is important because we live in a world that constantly tries to tell us that we do not meet the standards of beauty. I am a filmmaker that produces content that reflects the reality of the world and gets people thinking. I try to change the narrative by straying away from stereotypical roles that are commonly seen on television and in the media. As a brand ambassador I am able to create my own story and showcase a new standard of beauty. I am a mentor in my Dallas community, giving back every chance I can to our children and youth. Giving my time, knowledge, and focus to my students, allows me to pour into the next generation. Doing these things, take up majority of my time and it is not always easy to balance, but I know that it is beneficial. Along the way I learned that I cannot do all of these things by myself or else I would be burned out. I’ve learned to pace myself and that when the time is right, everything will align itself. I know that I have accomplished many things already, but this is still the beginning of my journey, I will not and cannot stop here.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would definitely take someone visiting to downtown Dallas, do a scavenger hunt, and see the beautiful artwork in the city. Depending on what sports they are interested in and what time of the year they visit, I would buy tickets to the Cowboys, Mavericks, Stars, or Rangers game. We would go to Victory Park so that they could watch a live news broadcast and also go on a DART adventure. Maybe even end up in Forth Worth.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shout out goes to a couple of people. First I want to thank God for creating me, giving me these talents, and continuing to bless me with opportunities such as this. I also would like to thank my family for pushing me to never settle for less and to not see limitations. Thanks to my elementary school, St. Philip’s School & Community Center for creating a solid foundation of making it known that “If it is to be, its up to me.” My mentor, Erica Annise, for taking me under her wing, always pushing through despite challenges, and showing me that I can be a successful Black woman. My life coach, Shalonda, for keeping me focused, organized, and helping me turn my ideas into actions. My students for keeping me motivated to continue what I’m doing, so that I am a positive role model in their lives. Lastly, I’d like to thank my best friend, Machella, for being by my side every step of the way. There are numerous others that have contributed to my journey and I am forever grateful to them as well.

Website: https://harmonyjonesprods.wixsite.com/mysite
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_harmonyjones/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/_harmonyjones
Facebook: Harmony Jones Productions
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCctuh7vbT_lrAo9KVgsmUmg
Other: Instagram: @divinecollection34

Image Credits
Soulke Photography
Divine Collection
Harmony Jones Productions