Clayton Jerome Singleton
Clayton Jerome Singleton (born May 31, 1972) is an American visual artist, author, public muralist, and arts educator based in Norfolk, Virginia. He is known for his mixed-media paintings, community murals, and written works that explore themes of identity, purpose, and self-empowerment. Singleton teaches visual arts with Norfolk Public Schools and has received multiple “Teacher of the Year” honors for his contributions as both an educator and an artist.[1]
Early life and education
Singleton was born in Norfolk, Virginia, on May 31, 1972. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and a PreK-12 Art Education certification from Virginia Wesleyan University, followed by a Master of Education from Regent University.[2]
Career
Singleton’s career spans more than two decades of artistic and educational work. His paintings and murals often blend collage, text, photography, and found materials to discuss themes of self-worth, history, and transformation. His pieces frequently address the roles of media, community, and race in shaping perception and identity. [2]
Exhibitions and public art
Singleton has participated in numerous solo and group exhibitions across Virginia and the U.S. His major works include:
- *Walking on Paper* — a solo exhibition at ArtWorks Gallery exploring humanity’s shared stories through layered symbolism.
- *Future Love Paradise* — a touring exhibition in partnership with the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center.
- *Unity* mural — co-created with Josh Wade at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, promoting diversity and inclusion.
- *Black Lives More Than Matter* mural — a large-scale public piece responding to social justice movements. [1]
Teaching and awards
Singleton has taught visual art in Norfolk Public Schools since the early 2000s and is known for using art to encourage critical thinking, empathy, and community leadership among students.[3]
He has received several teaching awards, including:
- **Norfolk Public Schools City-Wide Teacher of the Year (2023–2024)** [2]
- **Teacher of the Year** awards at multiple school levels — elementary, middle, and high school. [2]
- Named to the **Norfolk Public Schools 2025 All-City Teaching Team by School**, representing Lake Taylor High School.[4]
Authorship
In addition to visual art, Singleton is the author of several books aimed at inspiring reflection, creativity, and positive self-identity.
- "Dream. Plan. Work. Work." — A motivational art-based book encouraging readers, especially youth, to turn aspirations into action through consistent effort and community support.
- "Love Is Art" — A poetic reflection on empathy and human connection, often used in conjunction with his classroom and mural teachings.
- "Through the Eyes of Art" — A collection of writings exploring the intersections of art, education, and social awareness, emphasizing art’s ability to spark dialogue and healing. [2]
His writing often parallels his visual work, using art and words to guide readers toward growth, introspection, and understanding of cultural identity.
Recognition and press
Singleton has been featured in several regional and national publications:
- Named **Mural Artist of the Year (2020)** by *VEER Magazine* for his influence on public art and youth mentorship. [1]
- Highlighted in *WHRO Public Media* (2024) as Norfolk Public Schools’ Teacher of the Year for his dual impact as an educator and artist. [3]
Personal life
Singleton continues to live and work in Norfolk, Virginia, where he maintains a studio practice and mentors young artists through community initiatives and school programs.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Maisey, Jeff (2020-12-16). "Mural Artist of the Year: Clayton Singleton". VEER Magazine. Retrieved 2025-10-17.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 "Bio". ClaytonSingleton.com. Retrieved 2025-10-17.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 Friedman, Vicki L. (2024-04-30). "Suffolk Art Gallery features Black artists of Hampton Roads". WHRO Public Media. Retrieved 2025-10-17.
- ↑ "NPS 2025 All-City Teaching Team by School". Norfolk Public Schools. Retrieved 2025-10-17.
External links
Categories
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