Meet Jacob Bellevue | Film Maker, Model and Digital Creator

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

Hi Jacob, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I started taking modeling seriously when I began attending Howard University in 2021. I joined Models of the Mecca, a campus modeling organization that cultivates models and aims to prepare them for the industry. Over the past year, this exceptional organization has helped me find a tribe of like-minded people—driven by creativity. Aside from modeling, I am an aspiring film student at Howard University. My upcoming films will shatter the norms surrounding how we see black people on the big screen. My movies will dive into various topics, including love, mental illness, gender identity, and sexuality. I genuinely feel that there are many stones unturned in the film industry when It comes to us. One of my favorite sayings is, “You must be the change you want to see in the world,” and that is what I am going to do—no matter what gets in my way. I want my creativity to inspire others to be more significant. I want my work to make people feel something. Through modeling, filmmaking, or creating—I aspire to be a beacon of light.

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.
Three words that can describe my art are exuberant, dynamic, and versatile. All the people who follow my work can attest that I have a specific aura about how I do things. I never follow the trends; I always set them. Individuality is one of the main factors that propel my art. My skill has allowed me to be in Photo Vogue, The Shade Room, Ebony Magazine, HuffPost, and other significant publications. I am nowhere near where I aspire to be, but I’ve done an exceptional job thus far. Getting to where I am right now was natural but far from easy. Every creative has that awkward moment where they fall victim to imposter syndrome. We often question whether or not we’re doing enough, but that is when we dig deep. You must stay true to who you are and remember your “why.” If I had listened to my negative thoughts, they would have won. Currently, I am producing a documentary, Life at Howard, about the students and alums of Howard University and their unique experiences as they navigate life. Life at Howard will release in the spring of 2023. I am grateful for the fantastic team, and I am ecstatic for the world to see this project. Please follow @lifeathowarddoc on Instagram for updates! My story is ever-evolving, and I learn something new every day that will aid me on my journey to success. Glad that you guys are here for the ride.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting the city, I would take them to The Smith, a cute American brasserie in Washington, D.C. The Smith is casual but has excellent service and a lovely vibe. D.C. is such a beautiful place for eatery because there is always somewhere to go. Of course, we would have to stop by the museums being as though D.C. has a rich and unique history.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A pivotal part of my story and journey thus far has to be my family. The Bellevue family cultivated my creativity from birth. Artists, orators, and scriptwriters are a few individuals I am blessed to be around. My family inspired the majority of my creative ventures. It motivated me to see the encouragement of creativity flowing through my family. I will cultivate that same space when I have my children. Growing up in the church forced me to be the multifaceted being you now see. From modeling to acting to singing to digital creation, it is safe to say that I’m Mr.DoItAll. As an artist, I have so many layers to me, and I’m so excited to show the world finally.

Instagram: instagram.com/jacobbellevue

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbellevue

LAH Instagram: instagram.com/lifeathowarddoc

Image Credits
Durrell Carey, Chandler Searcy, Obi Does Production, Rockavelli Visuals