Affluence Magazine

Black Art Can Build Wealth, Preserve Culture, and Reduce Taxes In her latest article, “Black Art as a Financial Investment: Wealth, Legacy, and Tax Advantages,” Spann makes a compelling case for why investing in Black art is more than just acquiring beautiful pieces—it’s a transformative financial and cultural strategy. “Investing in Black art is more than a financial strategy— it is a commitment to cultural preservation and generational wealth.” — JR Renee Spann This quote captures the heart of Spann’s message. Black art is not just valuable in galleries; it’s invaluable in homes, in portfolios, and in the hearts of families seeking to pass down more than money—seeking to pass down meaning, legacy, and identity. In the article, Spann breaks down the many layers of art investment: Financial Appreciation: How owning works by Black artists can appreciate in value over time. Cultural Impact: The importance of supporting living Black artists and preserving our visual history. Tax Advantage...

From Beauty to Balance Sheet: A Letter from the Publisher, Dr. Anita R. Johnson There’s something deeply affirming about seeing your wealth reflected not just in your bank account, but in the beauty that surrounds you. In this month’s powerful issue of Affluence: Financial Fitness for Women, our publisher, Dr. Anita R. Johnson, opens with a moving letter that redefines what it means to be financially empowered—and artistically inspired. Dr. Johnson shares a personal memory: the first time she purchased a piece of art. Like many of us, she did it with a mix of hesitation and hope—unsure of the financial value but drawn in by something more soulful. That same artwork still hangs in her home today, glowing with meaning. But it’s not just a visual statement—it’s a financial asset, a part of her legacy, and a reminder that beauty can hold measurable value. In her letter, Dr. Johnson tackles a truth we don’t hear enough: Black art belongs in Black homes—and on Black balance sheets. Historica...

Youth Spotlight: Taliyah Haywood — A Young Artist with a Powerful Voice In this month’s special issue of Affluence: Financial Fitness for Women , themed Black Art as Investment, we’re proud to shine our Youth Artist Spotlight on an extraordinary young talent: Taliyah Haywood. At just 9 years old, Taliyah is already proving that art is not just a creative outlet—it’s a legacy. Born on October 1, 2015, in Tampa, Florida, Taliyah radiates pure creative energy. Her journey into the world of art began at the age of two, with a simple act of finger painting at a birthday party. Since that moment, her passion has only grown—transforming from playful exploration into a powerful medium for self-expression and storytelling. Taliyah’s artwork is more than paint on canvas—it’s a reflection of her heart, her spirit, and her belief in the power of beauty. Whether she’s illustrating her own books, drawing love letters for her family, or decorating her parents’ offices with colorful masterpieces, h...

Jewel Ham Shines on the Cover of Affluence — and She’s Not Holding Back There’s a reason why our latest issue of Affluence: Financial Fitness for Women hits different. Gracing the cover is none other than visual artist, creative visionary, and truth-teller Jewel Ham, whose bold piece Did I Stutter sets the tone for an issue centered on reclaiming power, voice, and value—in every sense of the word. Jewel Ham’s art doesn’t whisper; it speaks unapologetically, directly, and with force. And in her deeply engaging interview on Finding Your Financial Voice , hosted by Dr. Anita R. Johnson, Jewel pulls back the curtain on her creative journey and the financial missteps many artists unknowingly make when entering spaces where their vision is seen but not always valued. In the interview , Jewel recounts the pivotal lessons learned early in her career about ownership. She candidly shares how, in certain environments—particularly group-think settings common in the creative and corporate industr...