Isaiah Smallwood
Elmira, NY
IG: @itszay365
FB: @OfficialIsaiahS
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/isaiah-smallwood-10596320a/
Isaiah Smallwood was raised on the East side of Elmira, which historically was where many Black families lived and still live today. Although freed Black people have lived in Elmira since before the Civil War, much of our history and culture is left out of Elmira’s official history. Influenced by country, R&B, soul and gospel music, Smallwood’s current project features the natural and human-made landscapes of Elmira and the surrounding rural areas. Currently a part of the worship tam at His Tabernacle in Elmira, he also gives back to his community by teaching home audio engineering classes at the Economic Opportunity Program (EOP). Isaiah Smallwood was selected as a 2023 contestant on American Idol.
Photo credit: Jill Bornand
Return to 2023 AWARDEES page
New York State Rural & Traditional Arts Fellowship 