Ricky Leon Cannon: From Ohio to New York – A Story of Creativity, Resilience, and Growth

As the first guest on the Novara Collective Podcast, Ricky shared his story in a way that was raw, honest, and deeply relatable. From his childhood in Ohio to the culture shocks of LA and the grind of New York City, Ricky’s path is filled with lessons that resonate with small creators, business owners, and anyone navigating their own creative journey.

This blog takes you through the key moments of his life — his humble beginnings, the pivotal moves that shaped his creative identity, and the wisdom he’s gained along the way. If you’ve ever felt unsure of where your creative path is leading you, Ricky’s story serves as a powerful reminder: growth doesn’t happen in a straight line, but every step counts.

For many people, Cleveland, Ohio, might not seem like the ideal starting point for a creative career. Known for its quiet charm, affordable living, and laid-back pace, Cleveland feels a world away from the fast-paced energy of New York or Los Angeles. But for Ricky Leon Cannon, it was the perfect place to develop his curiosity and creative spark.

“Cleveland is the kind of place you go to when you want to slow down,” Ricky explained on the Novara Collective Podcast. The affordable rent, open spaces, and slower pace gave people the chance to focus on family, simplicity, and tradition. But for Ricky, there was always something stirring inside him — a desire for more.

Growing up, Ricky described himself as “very sporadic” — a kid with an adventurous mind, always looking for something new to explore. But it wasn’t until he experienced the culture of art and fashion at home that his passion for creativity truly began to take shape. His mother, a fashion stylist with experience working with artists like Alicia Keys and Machine Gun Kelly, played a pivotal role in sparking his love for fashion, art, and individuality.

“My mom was someone I really looked up to,” Ricky shared. “She showed me that creativity is more than just having fun — it’s a business.”

The home environment his mother cultivated was anything but ordinary. From abstract paintings on the walls to unique decor (like a literal goat head in the living room), the visual cues around him planted the seeds of creative thinking. He recalled seeing his mom wear bold, unconventional outfits like plaid skirts paired with leather pants and boots — a look that would have been out of place in many Cleveland households.

But for Ricky, this wasn’t strange. It was normal. It was inspiring.

“She was different,” he said. “And that inspired me to be different too.”

This exposure to art, fashion, and self-expression laid the foundation for Ricky’s creative journey. But it wasn’t just about style or aesthetic. It was about boldness. It was about being unapologetically different — a lesson he carried with him as he moved to new cities in search of growth.

“I always knew I wanted more, even if I didn’t know exactly what it was at the time,” Ricky said.

How does a kid from Cleveland, Ohio, go on to leave his mark on the creative scenes of Los Angeles and New York? Meet Ricky Leon Cannon — a designer, storyteller, and creative visionary who embodies the spirit of resilience and self-expression. His journey is a testament to the power of persistence and adaptability, two qualities that are at the heart of the Novara Collective mission.

Early Life in Ohio

The Journey to New York: A Bold Move

For many people, the idea of moving to New York City with only $60, a Megabus ticket, and a dream might sound impossible. But for Ricky Leon Cannon, it was simply part of the process. While his move to Los Angeles gave him a taste of change, it was New York that truly set things in motion.

Ricky’s journey to New York wasn’t driven by guarantees or safety nets. Instead, it was fueled by a mix of love, ambition, and the understanding that sometimes you have to bet on yourself — even when you have no backup plan.

“I left with $60, a Megabus ticket, and a dream.”

He described the experience of coming to New York City for the first time not as a tourist, but as someone ready to create his own experience. This was different from his earlier visits, where he was led around the city as a guest. This time, he was fully in control of his own path.

“It’s different when you’re just visiting and someone is showing you around. But when you’re alone and responsible for figuring it out yourself, it hits differently.”

The transition wasn’t easy. Without stable housing, Ricky found himself couch-surfing and navigating the challenges that come with being new in a city known for its intensity and high stakes. But it was in these moments of uncertainty that he realized something about himself:

“I had to figure out if I was doing this for love or for myself.”

That realization became a guiding force for him. It wasn’t just about relationships or location. It was about recognizing the deeper “why” behind every move he made. As he put it, “Love fuels creativity” — and for Ricky, that love wasn’t just romantic. It was love for the world, for art, for creative expression, and for the idea that if he could just hold on long enough, something incredible would happen.

And it did.

If there’s one thing Ricky Leon Cannon has learned on his journey, it’s that growth doesn’t happen in a straight line. From the early days in Cleveland to his breakthrough moments in New York, his path has been defined by moments of reflection, risk, and personal transformation.

“Love fuels creativity,” Ricky shared on the Novara Collective Podcast, emphasizing that love — whether it’s love for people, the planet, or creative work — has always been a key driver in his artistic journey.

One of the most powerful lessons Ricky shared was the importance of maintaining control over your identity. This lesson came into sharp focus during his brief experience in the world of modeling. While walking through New York’s fashion district, Ricky was approached by a modeling agent who saw his height and presence as an opportunity. At 6’5”, he had the physical stature that agencies look for — but that wasn’t enough.

“At first, I thought modeling could be a path for me,” Ricky explained. “But I quickly realized that in this industry, people will try to tell you who you’re supposed to be.”

He soon discovered that the demands of the modeling industry clashed with his values of self-expression and creative freedom. His experience with body image was especially tough. Despite being 6'3" and weighing 165 pounds at the time, he was told to “get darker, get more toned, and lose weight” — a stark reminder that no matter how much you give, it may never feel like it’s enough.

“That was the first time I experienced body dysmorphia,” Ricky shared, reflecting on his first winter in New York City. “And that’s something every model will tell you — it’s never enough.”

This experience shaped one of the most important lessons in his journey: The value of self-definition. He learned that it’s better to create on your own terms than to let others define you. This philosophy continues to influence the way he approaches his career today.

“I didn’t want to be a model for someone else’s vision. I wanted to create my own vision.”

This approach fuels his current creative projects, from jewelry design to set design and music production. His ability to channel his personal values into his work is part of what makes him such a compelling figure in the Novara Collective community.

Lessons Learned on the Journey

When asked if he had a formal mentor to guide him through his creative journey, Ricky’s answer was surprisingly honest:

“I don’t think advice is always that useful. I like making mistakes on my own.”

This perspective reflects a deep sense of self-reliance and self-discovery. Rather than seeking guidance from a single figure, Ricky allows his experiences — both good and bad — to be his teachers. But that doesn’t mean he’s done it all alone. He admits that he’s learned from friends, family, and the creative community around him.

“Life is a classroom, and there’s always a teacher and always a student. Sometimes that role shifts.”

This philosophy of “learning by living” has led him to approach creativity with emotional depth. Instead of thinking technically or logically about his creative process, he allows his emotions to guide him. If he feels joy, excitement, or inspiration, he pours it directly into his work. This emotional connection fuels some of his most impactful creations, like his jewelry designs and collaborative projects.

One example of this was his work for Bloom for the People, a California-based cannabis brand. For them, he created a piece of jewelry inspired by the molecular structure of a cannabinoid. It wasn’t just a design — it was a reflection of Ricky's unique way of turning abstract ideas into tangible art.

“I try not to tie too much technical work into my creativity,” Ricky explained. “If I’m excited, happy, or feeling something deep, I let that emotion drive my art.”

Beyond his personal work, community plays a major role in his creative life. He views his closest creative friends as mentors and collaborators. Rather than seeing mentorship as a one-way street, he sees it as a reciprocal relationship where everyone has something to learn.

“My friends are my mentors, and I’m theirs too. We uplift each other.”

This philosophy directly aligns with the Novara Collective mission. At Novara, mentorship is seen as a shared experience where creatives learn from one another and grow together. It’s about building community, not hierarchy — and Ricky’s story serves as a powerful reminder that the people around you are some of the most valuable resources in your journey.

Mentorship & Community

When you’re constantly focused on growth, it’s easy to overlook the wins along the way. For Ricky Leon Cannon, success isn’t defined by trophies, awards, or external validation. Instead, his measure of success comes from something far deeper — the feeling of purpose.

“I’m not here to chase Grammys or trophies. For me, it’s about knowing that I did what I was meant to do on this earth.”

One of Ricky’s proudest accomplishments is his jewelry design work. While his first designs were focused on aesthetics, he soon realized that beauty alone wasn’t enough for him. He wanted his work to have meaning. This shift in mindset led to his latest collection under the brand “GABA”, which focuses on creating jewelry that deflects electromagnetic interference (EMI) — a concept born from Ricky’s love for nature and observation.

“I was at a park and saw a bee pollinating a flower. When I brought my phone closer to take a picture, the bee started to glitch and scatter away. That stuck with me. I realized that the electromagnetic waves from my phone were disrupting the bee’s homing device.”

This moment of curiosity inspired Ricky to create jewelry with a purpose. Using a blend of materials like black carbon, graphite, and sterling silver, he designed pieces that can help protect against the EMI waves emitted by smartphones and other devices. The jewelry isn’t just beautiful — it’s functional, thoughtful, and intentional.

“Now, when I design jewelry, I want it to do more than just look good. I want it to serve a purpose, to offer protection, and to add value.”

This sense of purpose is what separates his work from the crowd. He’s not chasing trends or trying to outdo anyone. He’s simply creating from a place of authenticity, allowing his personal reflections and observations to drive his work. This, perhaps, is his greatest “win” — the ability to stay true to himself, no matter the industry, project, or circumstance.

For many creatives, the pursuit of purpose can feel overwhelming. It’s easy to feel stuck, unsure of which path to take. Ricky Leon Cannon has been there, too. But one of his most profound pieces of advice is simple:

“Go with your gut.”

This advice, though simple, carries a profound message about trust, patience, and self-awareness. Many creatives search for clarity and direction, but Ricky believes that purpose is something that unfolds over time. You can’t rush it. You can’t force it. You have to let life reveal it to you naturally.

“Purpose is synonymous with time. You can’t find it in a moment. You can be a go-getter and chase something, but that doesn’t mean you’ll find your purpose right away. It comes to you, like a dream.”

This perspective challenges the notion that success comes from hustle alone. Instead, Ricky invites creatives to embrace patience, reflection, and intuition. When you chase something too hard, you risk ignoring the signs that life is giving you. Purpose, he says, is revealed through experience, not force.

Another key piece of advice Ricky offers is about control — not control of others, but control of yourself. Early in his journey, he realized that he spent too much time trying to "fix" other people or make them see their own potential. But that energy, he learned, is better spent on investing in yourself.

“Don’t waste your energy trying to make people see something they aren’t ready to see. Focus on yourself. If you put that energy into yourself, you become your own navigator.”

This concept of self-navigation is one of the most important lessons Ricky shares. By focusing on his own development, he’s been able to attract like-minded people who support and collaborate with him. He emphasizes that your tribe will find you when you’re doing the work — not by chasing others, but by standing in your purpose.

“You don’t have to go chasing people to follow you. Just be the light, and like a moth to a flame, people will find you.”

For creatives searching for clarity, this advice is invaluable. Whether you’re just starting out or navigating a new stage in your career, Ricky’s message is clear: Trust your gut, focus on your growth, and let purpose come to you in its own time.

For Ricky Leon Cannon, the concept of legacy isn’t tied to a trophy, a title, or even a "big break." His view of legacy is more personal, more human, and ultimately more profound. It’s about the people he leaves behind.

“My idea of legacy is about my nephews, my kids, and my kids' kids. It’s not about whether I win a Grammy or get a trophy. My legacy will be about whether I did what I was supposed to do on this earth.”

This philosophy is at the core of everything Ricky creates, from his EMI-deflecting jewelry to his pursuit of ancestral music. His goal is to create things that last beyond his lifetime, things that his future family can look back on and say:

“You did a great job. You can rest now.”

Ricky's exploration of legacy is also why he became interested in music and sound design. Unlike visual art or physical creations, music has the ability to live on through generations. A lullaby passed from parent to child becomes an heirloom, a timeless connection between past, present, and future. This concept inspired Ricky to create music with ancestral tones and meditation sounds — a project that reflects his desire to leave something more permanent than a product or an image.

“Songs can be passed down from generation to generation. You can sing a song to your baby, and that baby will grow up remembering that song. That’s the power of legacy.”

This belief in ancestral storytelling is one of the most profound takeaways from Ricky’s creative journey. His goal is not to be seen or applauded — it’s to ensure that the people who come after him feel seen, inspired, and protected.

This concept of legacy extends to his current and future projects, including his GABA jewelry line. His pieces are not just accessories. They are objects of protection, purpose, and permanence. His focus on protecting people from electromagnetic interference (EMI) reflects a belief that art can do more than look good — it can be a force for protection and wellness.

“If you’re going to create something, make sure it has a purpose. Don’t just create for attention. Create something that means something.”

As he looks to the future, Ricky is committed to keeping his projects private until they’re ready to be revealed. He’s learned that sharing ideas too early can drain the energy needed to complete them. His new mantra is simple:

“Don’t speak into the void. Make sure the people you share with can give you something back.”

This approach reflects Ricky’s focus on sustainable, purposeful creation. His goal isn’t to be loud, flashy, or the center of attention. Instead, he’s committed to creating meaningful work that lasts beyond him — work that leaves behind a legacy not just for himself, but for his community, his family, and his future generations.

If Ricky Leon Cannon’s story inspired you, there’s more to discover. His journey from Ohio to New York, his reflections on legacy, and his unique creative process are explored in even greater detail on the Novara Collective Podcast.

🎙️ Listen to the full episode with Ricky Leon Cannon — hear his insights on art, purpose, and the pursuit of growth straight from the source. It’s a conversation filled with wisdom, humor, and reflections on the creative journey that every small creator and business owner can relate to.

🎧 Click below to listen now!
[Listen to the Podcast]

Follow Ricky on Social Media
Stay connected with Ricky Leon Cannon and follow his creative journey on social media:
📸 Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter: [@RickyLeonCannon]

Don’t miss his upcoming GABA jewelry collection launching this January, featuring pieces designed with both style and protection in mind. It’s jewelry with purpose, designed to block EMI (electromagnetic interference) from phones and devices. Stay tuned for updates on his music, set design, and more.

What Did You Take Away From Ricky’s Story?
We’d love to hear your thoughts on Ricky’s journey. What part of his story inspired you most? Leave a comment below or tag us on social media. Let’s keep the conversation going.

Defining Moments & Personal Wins

Advice for Aspiring Creatives

The Legacy Ricky Hopes to Leave

Frequently Asked Questions About Ricky Leon Cannon

1. Who is Ricky Leon Cannon?
Ricky Leon Cannon is a creative visionary, designer, and artist known for his work in jewelry design, set design, music, and creative storytelling. His journey from Ohio to New York highlights themes of growth, self-expression, and creative control.

2. What is GABA jewelry?
GABA is Ricky Leon Cannon’s jewelry brand focused on creating EMI-deflecting jewelry. Using a unique blend of black carbon, graphite, and sterling silver, these pieces are designed to protect wearers from electromagnetic interference (EMI) emitted by phones, devices, and other forms of modern technology.

3. How did Ricky Leon Cannon get his start in the creative industry?
Ricky’s creative journey started at the age of 12, helping his mother — a fashion stylist — on sets with artists like Machine Gun Kelly and Alicia Keys. He later pursued opportunities in fashion, jewelry design, music, and set design, building a multi-faceted creative career.

4. What is Ricky Leon Cannon’s philosophy on creativity and purpose?
Ricky believes that “purpose is synonymous with time.” He emphasizes patience, self-reflection, and the idea that purpose can’t be forced. Instead, it’s revealed through life experiences. He encourages creators to trust their gut and focus on their personal growth rather than chasing validation.