About Mr. West

Founder. Director. Vision Architect.

“Mr. West” is an implant from Jackson MS and brings over 30 years of experience as a Computer Scientist for U.S. National Security Agency, is a Navy veteran, interdisciplinary artist, and visionary leader in the creative economy. As the Executive Director of ArtsGroup Inc. and founder of the StudioPlace A&R Complex, Mr. West has spent the past decade working in the DC Region transforming underutilized spaces into hubs of culture, creativity, and community.

As a practicing technologist, he is currently a Chief Information Officer for DC Government with a focus on governance and AI Research. His projects include Parkmobile, DCFreeWifi and Cybersecurity Training. His past positions include DC Director for IT Security, Governance Lead and Training Officer. Currently he explores and manages AI Research.

With deep roots in the intelligence community and a passion for justice, Mr. West brings a rare mix of discipline, heart, and innovation to every project. His mission is clear: create spaces that empower artists, protect their rights, and offer them the tools to thrive — not just survive.

What He Does

• Studio Development & Real Estate Strategy: Mr. West has built one of the region’s largest multi-tenant arts centers, overseeing design, permitting, leasing, and day-to-day operations.

• Artist Development & Mentorship: Through residencies and A&R programs, he provides housing, transportation, and career training to emerging artists.

• Media Production & Digital Innovation: Mr. West leads groundbreaking projects in animation, radio, and AI—like Nepotism 2051, a dystopian series reflecting society’s darkest truths through animated resistance.

• Youth Advocacy & Workforce Training: As a multi-year contractor with the DC Office of Youth Programs, he trains 40–60 youth each summer in animation, audio, and digital storytelling.

His Vision - COMPLETED 2021!

Mr. West is more than a builder — he’s a movement starter. He sees art as infrastructure, storytelling as warfare, and community as the ultimate client. His leadership has turned StudioPlace into a cultural stronghold, not just for art but for truth.

With every mural, every podcast, every frame of animation — Mr. West is laying bricks for a new future. One that belongs to the artists, the underdogs, and the ones the system forgot.