Meet Caleb Shaw | Multi Disciplinary artist

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

Hi caleb, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I was 19 years old, grappling with a sense of being lost and searching for something to fill an emotional void that seemed impossible to define. One afternoon, my best friends and I, all gathered in our modest apartment, Apt 209 B, decided to have a random cypher just for fun. What started as a spontaneous and lighthearted activity soon evolved into something far more profound. As we freestyled and exchanged verses, I discovered an intense and immediate connection with the process of creating music. It was as if this art form offered a boundless space where I could pour out feelings and thoughts that I had never been able to articulate otherwise.

Music quickly transformed from a casual pastime into my first and true love. It was the one constant in my life that never faltered or left me, providing a sense of stability and understanding that I had longed for. The ability to express my innermost emotions through melodies and lyrics became a lifeline, a way to navigate through the complexities of my own experiences and uncertainties.

A few months later, this newfound passion led me to start a band called Soupkitchen. Despite the humble beginnings and the fact that our makeshift studio was just next to pans and bowls—because it was all we could afford—every note we played and every word we sang was imbued with an undeniable sense of purpose. Our music was crafted in the midst of simple surroundings, yet it was rich with the depth of our commitment and creativity.

Through this journey, I realized that pursuing a creative career was not merely about seeking external validation or achieving conventional success. It was about finding a way to connect deeply with myself and others, and to create something that resonated on a profoundly personal level. Music became a refuge, a way to explore and understand my own identity, and a means to build a community with those who shared in this transformative experience.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My journey into the art scene began with a pivotal moment introduced by my best friend Gabe. At the time, he was a film major in college, and his passion for storytelling through visuals was incredibly inspiring. It was through him that I first dipped my toes into the world of music videos. I vividly remember attending a shoot for Gunna and Young Thug. Witnessing the creative process behind the scenes was nothing short of electrifying. It was there that I realized the boundless possibilities within the art form and the potential to turn dreams into reality.

This experience was a catalyst for my own creative ambitions. I became determined to explore this path, and I threw myself into it wholeheartedly. I locked myself in my room for hours, days, even weeks, immersed in learning and perfecting my craft. This period of intense focus was crucial in developing my skills and understanding what it means to walk the path of a true artist. Seeing someone else’s dream unfold before my eyes ignited a fire in me, a drive to carve out my own space in the artistic landscape.

What sets my art apart is this very journey of dedication and self-discovery. My work is deeply rooted in the raw emotions and experiences that I’ve navigated along the way. I blend elements of poetry with rap, creating a unique fusion that reflects both lyrical depth and rhythmic innovation. This blend allows me to explore and express the complexities of the human experience in a way that feels both personal and universal.

I am most proud of the moments when my art resonates with others, when it strikes a chord or inspires someone in a way similar to how I was inspired by Gabe’s film work. Each piece I create is a reflection of my journey, and the opportunity to connect with an audience on an emotional level is incredibly rewarding.

Reaching where I am today professionally has certainly not been easy. The road has been filled with challenges and obstacles, from the struggle to find my voice to the practical difficulties of starting out with limited resources. Overcoming these hurdles required resilience, a willingness to learn from failures, and an unshakeable belief in my vision. Each setback was a lesson in perseverance, pushing me to adapt and grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated.

One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the importance of staying true to my own voice and vision. There will always be external pressures and distractions, but it’s essential to remain authentic and grounded in what genuinely drives me. Additionally, I’ve learned the value of community and collaboration—surrounding myself with supportive individuals and mentors who can offer guidance and encouragement.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that my art is an embodiment of a journey driven by passion, dedication, and personal growth. It is a testament to the transformative power of creativity and the endless possibilities that arise when we dare to follow our dreams. My story is one of overcoming adversity, embracing the craft of storytelling, and continuously evolving as an artist. My hope is that my work not only reflects my own experiences but also resonates with and inspires others on their own journeys.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
f my best friend was visiting and we were planning an epic week in San Diego, here’s how I’d make sure they had the best time ever:

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

Breakfast: Start with a relaxing breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla, known for its charming atmosphere and delicious pancakes.
Morning: Head to La Jolla Cove to take in the stunning ocean views and maybe even spot some sea lions lounging on the rocks.
Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at George’s at the Cove with its fantastic rooftop views and fresh seafood.
Afternoon: Explore the vibrant art galleries and shops in the La Jolla Village.
Dinner: Dine at The Taco Stand for some of the best authentic Mexican tacos in town.
Day 2: Beach and Downtown Adventure

Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at Great Maple, famous for its maple bacon doughnuts and hearty breakfast fare.
Morning: Spend the morning at Mission Beach and Pacific Beach, where you can stroll the boardwalk or rent bikes to explore.
Lunch: Enjoy a beachside lunch at Pacific Beach AleHouse, known for its great craft beer selection and casual vibes.
Afternoon: Head downtown to the USS Midway Museum to explore the historic aircraft carrier.
Dinner: For a unique dining experience, visit Born and Raised, an upscale steakhouse with a retro vibe.
Day 3: Nature and Culture

Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Mission Cafe in the Mission Hills neighborhood.
Morning: Visit Balboa Park, where you can explore the botanical gardens, museums, and the iconic San Diego Zoo.
Lunch: Have a delightful lunch at The Prado in Balboa Park, offering a great mix of Californian and Mexican cuisine.
Afternoon: Wander through the park’s Spanish Village Art Center and its colorful studios.
Dinner: Head to Hodad’s in Ocean Beach for some legendary burgers and a laid-back atmosphere.
Day 4: Day Trip to Tijuana

Breakfast: Enjoy a simple breakfast at Cafe 21 before heading out.
Day Trip: Take a quick trip across the border to Tijuana. Explore Avenida Revolución for shopping, dining, and a taste of Mexican culture.
Lunch: Try some authentic street tacos at Tacos El Gordo.
Dinner: Return to San Diego and relax with dinner at Lucha Libre Taco Shop, known for its unique taco creations and lively atmosphere.
Day 5: Exploring Coronado

Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at Coronado Brewing Company with its great range of beers and tasty breakfast options.
Morning: Spend the day on Coronado Island. Relax on the beautiful Coronado Central Beach and explore the historic Hotel del Coronado.
Lunch: Dine at Peohe’s, which offers stunning waterfront views and fresh seafood.
Afternoon: Rent bikes and explore the island or visit the charming shops and cafes on Orange Avenue.
Dinner: Enjoy a sunset dinner at Mister A’s, which boasts panoramic views of the city and a sophisticated menu.
Day 6: Outdoor Fun and Shopping

Breakfast: Grab a fresh juice and breakfast wrap at The Living Room Cafe in Pacific Beach.
Morning: Hike the trails at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve for breathtaking coastal views.
Lunch: After your hike, have a casual lunch at Sushi Ota for some of the best sushi in San Diego.
Afternoon: Visit the Seaport Village for shopping and a leisurely stroll by the waterfront.
Dinner: Head to Nobu for a high-end sushi experience with a modern twist.
Day 7: Relax and Reflect

Breakfast: Finish your week with a relaxing brunch at The Mission Cafe.
Morning: Take a leisurely walk or bike ride through Sunset Cliffs Natural Park to enjoy one last dose of San Diego’s natural beauty.
Lunch: Have a light lunch at Cafe 21 before heading to the airport.
Afternoon: Reflect on the week’s adventures and maybe do a bit of last-minute shopping or relaxing at a local cafe.
San Diego is such a beautiful and tranquil place, offering an array of activities that blend natural beauty with vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for amazing Mexican food, stunning beaches, or unique local experiences, San Diego has something to make every moment memorable.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely, I’d be thrilled to give a shoutout to someone incredibly important in my life—my aunt. She deserves a heartfelt tribute for the profound impact she has had on my journey. It all began when I was 16 years old and feeling particularly adrift, struggling to find a meaningful outlet for my emotions. My aunt, with her boundless wisdom and passion for the arts, introduced me to the world of poetry.

Her enthusiasm was infectious, and through her guidance, I discovered a new way of seeing and expressing the world around me. Poetry became a gateway, opening up an entirely new realm of expression that allowed me to channel my innermost thoughts and feelings. It was through the delicate interplay of words and emotions that I began to understand the power of storytelling and self-expression.

As I delved deeper into poetry, I started to recognize its intrinsic connection with rap. The rhythm, the wordplay, the depth of feeling—rap and poetry are intertwined in a way that resonates profoundly with me. I realized that through rap, I could further explore and articulate the emotions and stories that poetry had initially introduced me to. This revelation was transformative, liberating me from the constraints that had kept my emotions locked away for so long.

Every step of my creative journey, every note I compose and every lyric I write, is deeply influenced by the inspiration and support my aunt has given me. Her belief in the power of words and her encouragement to embrace my feelings have been the driving forces behind my passion for music and expression.

In many ways, everything I do is a tribute to her. My achievements, my growth as an artist, and my dedication to my craft are all dedicated to her. She planted the seed of inspiration that has grown into a flourishing creative career, and her influence is woven into the very fabric of my work. So, this shoutout is for my aunt—thank you for being the guiding light and for showing me that through poetry and rap, I could find a voice for everything I had been holding inside.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cmackk__?igsh=NGVhN2U2NjQ0Yg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Other: Spotify : https://open.spotify.com/artist/3YJfhRnc7FXiVh7hAgU3tP?si=uba0hZoyTIWni6gZmBD_YA

Image Credits
Maddie Anderson