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

Hi KJ, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic or creative career because it’s me. I dropped out of college during the first semester of my freshman year because I knew I wasn’t supposed to be there. I would sit in class everyday daydreaming of moving out of the midwest to pursue careers skateboarding, modeling and acting. I eventually stopped going to school, created short/long term goals to achieve, and started working multiple jobs to support my dreams.

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.
I’m an artist that specializes in skateboarding, modeling, and acting. What sets me apart from others is that I’m a go-getter and work harder than anybody and I’m most proud of never giving up. It was not easy to get to where I am today because I had to be patient & persistent, believe in myself, fail, learn from my mistakes, and make sacrifices. The lessons I’ve learned along the way are to live everyday like it’s your last and when you fall get back up. I want the world to know that anything is possible if you put your mind to it.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We would eat cheeseburgers and drink milkshakes at In-N-Out, visit Sedona, and hang out at Scottsdale Fashion Square. In my view the most fun, interesting, and exciting places to check out are skate parks and thrift shops.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate a shoutout to all of the women in my life (mom, girlfriend, sisters, grandmas, aunts, cousins, friends) who have shown me nothing but support, love and encouragement. If it wasn’t for them I would not be the man I am today.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kellyjustindillard/?hl=en

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kellyjustindillard?lang=en

Image Credits
Q Marsden Briana Smith

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.