Dr. Airic Hughes is reshaping what creative leadership looks like in Arkansas. As the founder of Visionairi Studios in downtown Fayetteville, the first Black-owned business on the square, Hughes leads with purpose, service, and cultural preservation—not personal branding.
Community First, Always
- Hughes' motto: “It’s about we, not me.”
- He stays in Arkansas to serve local communities rather than chase fame elsewhere.
- His deep roots in Little Rock guide his understanding of what Arkansas communities need from creatives.
Storytelling Meets Public Health
- His latest project, "Healthy Smiles, Healthy Lives", addresses oral healthcare gaps in Arkansas.
- Partnering with Delta Dental Foundation, Hughes uses film to spotlight healthcare inequality and promote solutions.
- The documentary includes an original music album featuring Arkansas artists, linking creativity with public health outreach.
Visionairi Studios: More Than a Studio
- The studio includes podcast booths, editing suites, photography zones, and community gathering space.
- It's appointment-only and focused on projects aligned with Black cultural preservation.
- Despite no formal opening, it’s become a central hub for creatives and nonprofits alike.
A Legacy Approach to Creativity
- Inspired by figures like Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Hughes prioritizes substance over spotlight.
- His work is guided by service, mentorship, and long-term impact.
- He encourages creators to define their purpose and stay grounded in it.
For creators and entrepreneurs, Hughes offers a model that fuses artistry, activism, and community investment.
