Interview
Milton Gore, Jr.
Milton D. Gore, Jr. is the CEO of MG Visual Studios, LLC, a creative agency he founded in 2018. In this role, Milton specializes in delivering customized design solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs, ranging from marketing campaigns and branding to website design and beyond. He manages comprehensive branding and marketing strategies for businesses, supports business development, and continually refines his expertise in graphic design. In addition to his creative leadership, Milton has built an accomplished career in higher education. He recently served as Assistant Director of Strategic Enrollment Initiatives at the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW). His journey in higher education includes several key roles: Assistant Director at the Upperman African American Cultural Center at UNCW (2023–2024), Community Coordinator at Coastal Carolina University (2021–2022), Graduate Assistant at the Upperman Center (2020–2021), SAAB Intern at the Student African American Brotherhood (SAAB) (2020), and Assistant Residence Coordinator at UNCW (2019–2020).
Milton’s experience in graphic design and marketing spans nearly a decade. He began with a Public Relations Internship at the Southeastern Community Action Partnership, Inc. in 2015, followed by Graphic Designer roles with Law to the People, LLC and Peterkin Law Firm, PLLC in Red Springs, North Carolina, that same year. He also completed a Graphic Design Internship at the UNC Pembroke Office of Student Affairs. Academically, Milton earned his Associate of Arts in Fine Arts from Brunswick Community College in 2012, Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in Digital Arts from UNC Pembroke in 2015, and his Master’s in Higher Education and Leadership from UNC Wilmington in 2021. In his undergraduate studies, Milton joined SAAB National, Inc. Student African American Brotherhood, as the first president of the UNC Pembroke chapter. Today, he continues to work with SAAB’s CEO and Founder, Dr. Tyrone Bledsoe, as a SAAB Associate Consultant. As a creative professional, Milton specializes in graphic design, digital art, drawing, and branding for businesses and organizations. His approach to design is grounded in research and a deep understanding of organizational culture. What began as a childhood passion for art has developed into a purpose-driven career, culminating in the founding of MG Visual Studios. Guided by his faith in God, Milton approaches every aspect of his personal and professional journey with intention and integrity.
Milton has applied his creative expertise to brand a wide range of entities, from national conferences and city expos to start-ups and established organizations. His specialties include logo design, graphic advertisements, book covers, UX/UI, website design, social media materials, mass email templates, and data-driven marketing strategies for targeting and retargeting audiences. He also has a strong background in graphite, pen/ink, and digital illustration. Since 2008, Milton’s artistic style has evolved toward realism, with a distinct focus on capturing the spirit and essence of his subjects. His passion for art was reignited in high school through the mentorship of art instructor Shelia Vaught, who inspired his early interest in highly detailed graphite portrait that remain foundational to his portfolio today. Over time, he has digitized and refined many of these traditional pieces.
In the digital space, Milton has explored surrealism, blending expression, nature, space, realism, and vibrant color to create emotionally resonant pieces. His notable series Golden Garden featuring Fittonia Albivenis, Sunflower, and Rose celebrates the beauty of Black women and the elegance of nature through vibrant, visual storytelling. Outside of his work, Milton. enjoys music, food, reading, and values spending time with his family. He remains active in the community through his involvement with organization such as Black Arts Alliance, SAAB National, Inc., and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Looking ahead, he is committed to expanding MG Visual Studios, further refining his artistic craft, and continuing to develop a rich digital art portfolio. He also looks forward to pursuing new entrepreneurial ventures that align with his passion for graphic design, digital art, and creative innovation.
What inspires you?
“I am inspired by people, especially the idea that dreams and goals are truly attainable. I find inspiration in watching others pursue and achieve their aspirations, as it reinforces the belief that success is possible through dedication and vision. Over time, I have also developed a strong sense of self-inspiration, which has been shaped by the influence of talented and driven individuals I have surrounded myself with. Their creativity, discipline, and perspective continue to push me to grow both personally and artistically.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“The themes in my work often center around strength, power, intelligence, and resilience. I intentionally create pieces that allow viewers to interpret their own emotions and experiences through the artwork. In many ways, the audience helps define the underlying message based on what they feel when they engage with the piece. My goal is to create visual narratives that reflect both individual and collective experiences, while emphasizing empowerment and emotional depth.”
How would you describe your work?
“I would describe my work as emotionally expressive and visually bold, often combining bright color palettes with a wide range of human emotions. Each piece is intended to communicate a message or feeling, whether it is joy, struggle, confidence, or introspection. My work blends realism with imaginative elements, creating a balance between what is seen and what is felt.”
Which artists influence you most?
“Some of the artists who have influenced my work include Ivey Hayes, Kehinde Wiley, Minnie Evans, and Thomas Hart Benton. Each of these artists brings a unique perspective in terms of storytelling, composition, and cultural expression, which has helped shape how I approach my own work.”
What is your creative process like?
“My creative process often begins with a general vision inspired by real-life experiences, cultural influences, or natural elements. However, the final outcome rarely matches the original idea exactly. As I work, nuances and concepts emerge, allowing the piece to evolve organically. I embrace this fluid process because it often leads to more dynamic and meaningful results. The evolution of the artwork is just as important as the initial concept.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An artist’s role in society is to reflect reality, advocate for important issues, and visually communicate experiences that may otherwise go unseen or unheard. This includes expressing both positive and challenging aspects of life through creative work. Artists have the ability to inspire, educate, and provoke thought through their unique perspectives. As society continues to evolve, I believe the role of the artist will expand even further, especially as digital platforms create more opportunities for visibility, connection, and impact.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“One notable exhibition I participated in was Smile, Bro.: A Visual Conversation on Healing & Joy. This exhibit featured multiple artists and centered on portraying Black men in moments of joy, success, inspiration, and emotional depth. It was a powerful experience that challenged common narratives and highlighted positive and multifaceted representations. Another meaningful exhibition was Roots and Reverence: Portrait, Power, and Presence, which featured my work alongside artist Helen Barnett at the Bellamy Mansion Museum. This exhibit explored portraiture through both surrealism and realism, presenting diverse storytelling approaches. Each piece offered a different perspective and emotional impact, resonating with viewers in unique ways. As portrait work is one of my specialties, I especially appreciated the balance within the exhibit and how it connected with audiences across different interpretations and experiences.”
Instagram: @mgvs.digitalart
