Hi Gregg! Could you first introduce yourself to the reader?
Hi there, I'm Gregg Lowe, I’m an actor originally from Norfolk. I travel the world with my work and you can usually find me somewhere between Canada, the UK, the US, or contemplating my existence in Asia. I’m Aquarius and my best friend is Peanut Butter.
Describe your career in theatre, TV and film in 3 words.
Full. Of. Surprises
How did you get into an arts job? Have you also worked outside the arts?
I started performing at a really young age, around 5 or 6 years old. My parents supported and encouraged my sister and I (who is now an illustrator) to explore all things artistic when we were young. We often went to the theatre and had a very exhaustive after school programme. I just loved the element of play in performing and I’m still just playing!
Before I went to drama school, in an attempt to save money, I worked three jobs - the morning shift at Tesco, then in a health store during the day, and then feeding towels into a machine on a night shift at a linen factory. I really wanted to go to drama school!
These days, any other jobs I do are somehow linked to being creative. I love books and stories and that's something I’m working on frequently. My sister and I have started collaborating on children’s books with myself writing, and her illustrating. The first will be out next year which is super exciting!
Tell us more about Jupiter’s Legacy, and your character in this film.
Jupiters Legacy is an up-coming Netflix show based on the comic book series by Mark Miller, and about the world’s first generation of superheroes. I play a young superhero called "Flaming Fists"... you'll have to guess what his powers are. I can’t say much more than that right now, but make sure you look out for it!
What was it like to work on the HBO series Jett?
Jett was a series I worked on last year for HBO/Cinemax. For me, it was both a fun and challenging experience. I play Bobby, a good guy caught up in a bad situation, who is trapped in a violent relationship.
Have any artists in particular inspired or influenced your creative work?
In terms of actors, growing up I was a big fan of Steve Mcqueen and Paul Newman. They really encapsulated something so majestic and cool about being a movie star. And Robin Williams' creativity as an artist always blew my mind.
These days I have many people I look up to. Not necessarily all of them are in the arts, but I like to try and draw inspiration from as many different places as possible. For instance, Thich Nhat Hanh (a Vietnamese Buddhist monk) became an invaluable teacher to me. He has had a huge influence on how I approach my life and work and how I deal with the challenges it brings.
Why do you think it’s important for young people to get involve in the arts?
Young people are the voice of the future and we need those voices. More than anything, the arts help us to shape the world we live in and teach others what we know. So getting involved and putting your ideas out there gives you a chance to have your say.
It doesn't have to be grand. It needn't be your career or livelihood - just exploring and getting in touch with your artistic side can be such a powerful experience and help with understanding yourself, young and old.
Credit: Geraint LewisDo you have any advice for young people interested in doing your kind of job?
Never give up. If this is something you have to do, and there is nothing else you can imagine doing, then go for it!
There will be high highs and really low lows and it’s important to know that it’s not smooth sailing. But in a way, I think that's what makes it such a wonderful life. Also, give back as much as you can. The arts can be such a beautiful collaborative community and it’s important we take care of each other.
What challenges have you faced in your creative career?
If you want an easy and predictable career, an artistic one probably isn't the best choice.
There is a lot of rejection, way more losses than wins, and you are constantly putting yourself up for evaluation so it can feel very vulnerable and scary at times. But the rewards certainly outweigh the challenges.
What are the highlights of your career to date?
There are so many. I'm just so happy that I get to do what I love for a profession. I love to travel and with my work, I've been to so many amazing places. Creating little families around the world that stay with you for life is pretty special - otherwise it could be lonely.
Have you noticed any changes in the arts industry? If so, what?
I think social media and technology have changed everything - if you want to create a platform, it’s right there at your fingertips, so it’s never been easier to get your work out there.
There has been a big effort in recent years towards a more inclusive space across the arts and I think that is slowly being reflected in what we see. But we definitely have a way to go.
How can people find out more about your work?
You can follow me and get in touch through my Instagram @greggielowe.
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