People of the Downtown: Kayode Malomo

There is no doubt that Downtown York has many individuals and businesses who support the community. Each has a culture of their own, and have chosen to live and work here, driving the City’s future forward with positivity and light. Whether carrying on the legacy of a generations-run business or starting one from the ground up, or using their art to express hope and a sense of togetherness-the individuals in this feature are making their unique mark on our community. Here we spotlight just some of the people bringing their passions and traditions to Downtown York, helping to enrich it for us all.

Kayode Malomo

Creative Director & Artist, Malomsyart Multimedia | malomsyart.com

What do you love about Downtown York?

I love the energy and vibrance of Downtown York! The interesting combination of amazing historical buildings, murals, restaurants, businesses, shopping, entertainment, and events such as First Fridays that bring so many people together across the city make a wonderful combination.

What do customers love about your work?

My customers love the energy and connection with the artistic messages in my art that seeks to inspire hope, healing, happiness, beauty, hard work, creativity, and a sense of togetherness. My collection is unique in style, with distinct themes appealing to both collectors of contemporary African Art and enthusiasts looking to see a fresh artistic perspective in my exciting journey to York. I am very passionate about using my work as a way of uniting people, building community, and bringing joy into people’s lives through art.

What has been your proudest moment in Downtown York?

Being an integral part of a community that appreciates my art has been very encouraging. I have had the opportunity to volunteer at the Martin Library, Real Men Read initiative, 10,000 acts of kindness and many more. However, becoming a board member at Creative York was a very proud moment as it has given me an opportunity to use my art to bring about hope and healing, encourage more people of color to be a part of the art community and inspire creativity with kids at Lincoln Charter and York Academy.

Where would you tell someone to visit if they are planning a trip to Downtown?

I will tell them to definitely visit the Rail Trail to enjoy its beauty and serenity; The Central Market for food; The York Merchant for shopping; Handsome Cab, White Rose, The Cantina for a taste of good food and night life; Creative York and MarketView for Arts; The Agricultural and Industrial Museum for York’s history.

For the future of Downtown York, I am most excited about seeing individuals, organizations and neighborhoods working together on various positive impact projects aimed at making York a more vibrant and diverse community. I think York has a very bright future with a lot of potential for being a leading tourist/business destination.

Favorite spot to eat Downtown?

I love various spots but the top ones on my list are White Rose, Hamir’s, i-ronic, The Cantina, Gift Horse Brewing Company (I recommend their avocado burger!) and The Handsome Cab.

What about York's past and present inspires you?

The historic sites such as the Rail Trail, Agricultural & Industrial Museum (I love the antique cars), The Colonial Complex and The Appell Center makes me appreciate York’s past including the businesses, shopping, and events such as First Fridays that bring so many people together is an inspiration.

I am inspired by the work of Creatives like Victoria Kageni Woodard, Ms. Ophelia Chambliss and many more organizations such as Creative York inspiring creativity in the community; The Cultural Alliance, Downtown Inc, YCEA, YMCA’s New Welcoming Center and many more. What I love is the energy, passion and solutions approach these people/organizations bring to the table.