Creative Shields

Art on the Mile- First Art Show in Stockton

2012-02-10T13:07:00.001-08:00

It took 3 years but I finally had an art show in my hometown of Stockton, CA. It was a dope evening. The show was at Wharlows on Miracle Mile and it was in partnership with the Gospel Center Rescue Mission. There was live music, live painting, and coloring books.

finished abstract piece entitled "whirlows" 24x36" acrylic

Abstract Lessons with the Lil Cuzzos

2012-02-10T12:53:00.000-08:00

jan 14, 2012

So at this point I've been home in Cali for bout 3 weeks. I got some pieces I need to finish. The little cousins want some art lessons. I put them to work in the drive way. On our Cali steeze.

The Finished Piece...

Creativity from Behind Bars

2012-02-10T12:33:00.000-08:00

date: Jan 9, 2012

The Hip Hop Coloring Book has been out for a month and the support has been great. I’m really happy to be sending a coloring book to Aaron, who is currently incarcerated at Pike County Correctional Facility.

I wonder what I would do if I was to ever get locked up. As a black male thats a thought I ponder often. I hope this book aids in his mental freedom and encourages him to pursue his creativity even while in the most discouraging of circumstances.

Hip Hop Coloring Book via New York Daily News

2012-02-10T12:24:00.000-08:00

Kicken off 2012 proper. January 2nd The Hip Hop Coloring Book makes the New York Daily News. link: nydn.us/uixLhv

Hip Hop Coloring Book featured in Black Enterprise

2012-02-10T12:20:00.001-08:00

Word to the Howard University School of Business I made it in Black Enterprise. Much Appreciation. link: http://bit.ly/uzVMqP

Sneak Peak Recap of the Coloring Book Release Show

2012-02-10T12:11:00.000-08:00

Here's a preview to the release show of the Hip Hop Coloring Book entitled "Colored Only."

Filmed and edited by Quawee of All Perspectives Photography.

Colored Only- The Hip Hop Coloring Book Art Show

2011-11-14T21:58:00.001-08:00

It's finally here. Join me on December 10th for the debut of the Hip Hop Coloring. I hope you can make it out and grab one of the first 400 books available for sale. I'll be displaying my original art from the coloring book. No acrylic this time tho, simply crayons, markers, and water color.

Info:

December 10th

Charles Bank Gallery, 196 bowery st.

kids art class (free) 2-4pm

art show 7:30-9:30pm

more info: here & here

ReInspire Brooklyn Grand Opening!

2011-11-07T14:43:00.000-08:00

145 Front st. Brooklyn, NY. Come by and see whats up. Shout out to @boy_box & @spaghetti boys productions for documenting!

Home Cooked Masterpiece Vol. 2

2011-10-27T11:11:00.000-07:00

I dont usually like to brag about how much fun I have painting and partying, but sometimes you got to spread the good word. These Home Cooked parties w/ DJs Flo & Jonesy are amazing. I even started a new style of live painting where I invite the crowd to paint along with me. These paintings truly capture the energy of the crowd.

Click here to listen to the DJ set from the night. Go ahead... enjoy.

24x36, acrylic, for sale

The Offering by Cavalier & Scott Thorough

2011-10-27T10:50:00.000-07:00

The Offering/供え (pronounced sonae) is a "visual soundtrack"; a collaborative art project spearheaded by Hip-Hop recording artist Cavalier and Producer Scott Thorough totaling contributions from 1 Emcee, 1 Poet, 1 Producer and 8 visual artists.

Download Here

"Love Save Japan" for sale. All proceeds go to Japan relief efforts

Social Tapestry pt. 2

2011-10-17T20:20:00.001-07:00

So much has been going on this past year that its been hard for me to keep everyone updated as I would like to. But thank God for the homies and their artistic talents as they've lended their awesome talents to documenting parts of my journey. Last year I did an interview w/ Quawee on in Dumbo and year later here we're back for part two. Check it out below:

James Shields Tapestry Bridge 2 from Quawee Whitening on Vimeo.

Harmony

2011-10-07T16:15:00.000-07:00

This was a commissioned piece that was fun to do because of the theme. I like to think I took it to a spiritual place that represents the balance we seek to attain between the various energies within us.

Creative Shields x Concrete Cakes

2011-09-29T13:55:00.000-07:00

Much love to G Man and the good folks at Concrete Cakes. They caught up with me at the new shop ReInspire Brooklyn for this latest feature.

Home Cooked masterpiece Vol. 1

2011-09-29T12:58:00.000-07:00

When visual meets audio dopeness follows. DJs Flo and Jonesy throw the Home Cooked parties once a month. Catch the action from last month below.

ReInspire Brooklyn Grand Opening!

2011-09-19T22:55:00.000-07:00

Much Work. Much excitement. reinspirebrooklyn.com

145 Front st., Brooklyn, NY

Freestyle Fridays at FCBC

2011-09-14T22:56:00.000-07:00

Last week my church in Harlem, FCBC, kicked off their Friday Night Youth Service, "Freestyle Fridays". They commissioned me to do the graffiti backdrop that would hang during the service.

Two big first for me- 1) Its my largest scaled project to date. 10 feet high and 36 feet long. 2) This was my first time only using spray cans. Pretty much a dream come true for me. I love can art but have never indulged like this before.

I'm excited for more large scale opportunities. I think I'm starting to get a mural bug.

BLACK MOSES!!!

2011-09-02T08:44:00.000-07:00

This was a very special commission piece. A friend of mine love's Isaac Hayes and commissioned this for his new born son. It's kool knowing that this kid is going to grow up surrounded by great music and knowing the legends behind it. Rest in Power to the great Isaac Hayes. Play that Black Moses when you get a chance.

24x36, acrylic on canvas

Emy's Birdbrain

2011-09-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

I dont have a tv. Am on the internet way too much looking at random crap. I feel boxed in at times with muted ideas. Make sense? Here's to us that relate. Thanks Emy.

15x30, acrylic, canvas

Love Save Japan... and Everyone Else

2011-09-02T08:31:00.000-07:00

Did this piece in the spring for a video project w/ Cav Cavski/ and Alex. After the recent week in New York dealing with an earthquake and hurricane (along with the rest of the East Coast) I got to thinking about how fortunate we are for health and safety. Give Thanks. Spread Love.

Connecting through our Music

2011-08-29T10:44:00.001-07:00

Did this piece for the Liberator Magazine. Worlds apart but still connected.

Love TKO featured on I'm Next TV

2011-08-04T13:57:00.001-07:00

The roomie and I got featured on I'm Next TV! Check it out and see what I've been up to lately.

Great Stampede Flashback

2011-08-04T10:46:00.000-07:00

The month of may I prepared for the Great Stampede with CAM. The experiences of working on this show will forever be with me. Here's a brief insight into that world.

Purple Hearts

2011-08-04T10:09:00.000-07:00

So I was commissioned to paint a specific scene and it was to be themed and titled 'Purple Hearts.' Right before I started working on it Rip the Ruler came out w/ this dope song of the same name. So two random people both had their perspectives on the same concept. Below is the process of my interpretation.

Also, check this video out by RIP the Ruler. Dope.

Love TKO debuts at Mobrit Society's Social Tapestry

2011-08-01T11:42:00.000-07:00

Once a month dope artist showcase their work at Nigthingale Lounge at the I won last months competition and will be back to compete in the finals this Fall! I had a great time building with artists Ingrid Alvarez and Robert Reid. They do great work.

Love TKO, 24x36, Acrylic

Clay v. The United States

2011-06-05T15:48:00.001-07:00

This piece was a collaboration with myself and the homie Morgan. She gave me the idea and I ran with it. For the history on this about this piece click here

The Great Stampede

2011-05-23T12:30:00.000-07:00

I've been in the studio with CAM (Craig Anthony Miller) preparing for this huge show! Don't miss this. Easily the biggest event of the summer... easy.

DIS Micro Gallery & The Walkway

147 Front Street, Suite 221 (enter through reBar)

Brooklyn, NY

"Oh Really" Children's Book

2011-05-16T11:06:00.000-07:00

So its no surprise but I'm a big kid. Got happy when I had the opportunity to create some art for a new children's book. I hope to do more in the future.

Precipitation (Make It Rain)

2011-05-16T10:36:00.000-07:00

Appreciation to everyone who brings life to their industry through their passion and creativity. It can be music, art, teaching, etc. Just make sure you're raising the bar and following the status quo.

acrylic, 54"x30"

Love Jones NYC- Mother's Day Edition

2011-05-09T21:33:00.001-07:00

I think one of the greatest gifts a mother (or parent for that matter) is their appreciation for music. Mom's made sure we had plenty of gospel music growing up. Grandma taught me how to two-step in the name of love to R.Kelly. Happy Mother's Day to all the great moms out there.

Live Painting, 'A Mother's Love' 24x36, Acrylic

Live Painting w/ Kelly Price at the Singer's Room

2011-05-09T20:40:00.000-07:00

Singer's Room featured Kelly Price at their Acoustic Conversations show last week. She's an awesome singer and really great person. Go get her newest cd entitled 'Kelly'.

Positive Contact w/ the Anti-Achievers

2011-05-04T09:10:00.000-07:00

Had the pleasure of painting at the Anti-Achievers "The Highest Wing" exhibit. New piece is entitled "Positive Contact." Stay positive. Spread the word.

Positive Contact, 28x36, acrylic. For Sale

Paris My Love

2011-05-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

The homie Charmin loves Paris so she commissioned a piece. She chose the color scheme and I ran with it.

24x36, Acrylic

The Poetic Thesis- Poetry, Music, & Art Showcase

2011-04-12T12:07:00.000-07:00

Sunday!! Looking forward to this creative night. I'll be doing some live painting. More info here!

How to Build and Break Your Box

2011-04-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

Here's the play by play to to my latest piece. Thank you to everyone who chooses to live by their own standards and not by what's deemed correct by popular culture.

"Bigger Than Your Box"

22x28, Acrylic

Contact to Purchase

Blue Moon

2011-04-05T13:47:00.003-07:00

Spring is almost here in New York. To all the beautiful women who enjoy my favorite beer, this ones for you.

Blue Moon, 18x36, Acrylic. For Sale.

The Passion Fruit Lady

2011-04-03T17:25:00.000-07:00

Beautiful colors make the cypher complete.

18x36, acrylic, sold

Water Baby

2011-03-31T15:51:00.001-07:00

I love fashion photography. Its so easy to get inspired.

24x36. acrylic. for sale

The Inspiration...

Resurrection of a Dream

2011-03-28T13:26:00.001-07:00

Had fun creating from another person's vision. The original piece, done by homie Squirrel is entitled 'Death of a Dream.' I think he did it while in math class back in college.

While dreams do die I also believe that new ones are given life. This piece is about bringing life to dead situations through our creativity and originality.

Bird Brain the Series

2011-03-12T16:58:00.000-08:00

"and everybody twitters/ and everybody blogs/ but nobody saying shit/ they just copy paste it all/ thats how one persons opinion/ becomes everybodys thought/ when the blind leads the blind/ then everyone gets lost"

-XV, "Everybody's Nobody"

Your brain is a bird, set it free! Enjoy your individuality and take pride in knowing that you’re unique by just being you. Do not succumb to the media’s opinions and news simply because its popular. Develop your own interest and opinions. Learn yourself and be the person God intended you to be. Don’t be the bird stuck in the cage. Liberate yourself.

NY RAW SHOW: Catalyst

2011-03-03T16:54:00.000-08:00

The RAW Artist Showcase was dope. Great artist and great people. I debuted 4 new pieces. The first three paintings are a series called 'Silly Monkeys'. The second is titled "New York Expression."

Special thank you to everyone that bought tickets. I made 4x6 inch gifts for them!

'Silly Monkeys', 24x36" (each), acrylic

"A New York Expression" 24x36", acrylic

Youth Room Mural- Progressive Community Church

2011-02-16T22:03:00.000-08:00

Had the opportunity to team up with the homies Mandark and Nikki Diamonds to do a mural for my church's youth room. The piece was inspired by Proverbs 18:10, "The name of the Lord is a strong tower. The righteous run to it and they are safe." Stay tuned for more collabos between us.

RAW ARTISTS SHOW!!

2011-02-11T10:26:00.001-08:00

I'm returning to New York and I'm bringing new art work with me. I've partnered with RAWartists- an indepenedent arts organization that spotlights individual artists from all creative genres.

The night will feature a film screening, musical performance, fashion show, art gallery, performance art and a featured hairstylist and makeup artist. There will be a cash bar for cocktails while you enjoy the night. Dress code is cocktail attire, so dress the occasion and get ready for an artistic circus of creativity!

Tickets to this event are $10. Please purchase here and make sure to select 'creative shields' in the drop down menu to rsvp under my guest list. Last day to purchase is Feb. 21st.

Date: Feb. 24th

Time: 7pm

Location: 310 Lounge (310 Bowery st)

Birthday Celebration x Lipshitz

2011-02-03T10:11:00.000-08:00

My birthday is this Monday, February 7th and you know what i'm doing? that's right... "LIPSHITZ." When dealing with VashLuv you never really know what you're gonna get... and thats a good thing. So anyway, hope to see you in oakland monday night. It's gonna be a creative celebration for sure.

Somar

1727 Telegraph Ave
(between 17th St & 18th St)
Oakland, CA 94612

7:3o– 11pm

January Recap

2011-02-03T00:43:00.000-08:00

So I've started off 2011 by taking a break from the East Coast weather and chillen out in Cali. I've gotten some work done too. Here's some of what went down during the month of January.

Big Herk Clippers, 24x36, acrylic

Earthtone Abstract, 24x36, acrylic

Mother Gray, Pastel, 18x24

Kai's Mural

Dream & Evolve, 24x36, acrylic

Universe, 24x36, acrylic

25 years in Acrylic. Dont Bug Edition

2010-12-07T12:42:00.000-08:00

2010 is a hell of a year. Geeze. So much has went down and this pretty much sums up what it feels like. Ever had a moment/day/week/month/year like this?

Happy Birthday Adia

2010-12-07T12:14:00.000-08:00

I celebrated a good friend's birthday last week while painting live at her party. I had a great time. She's a professional dancer who's kind of awesome at it. This piece was only appropriate for Harlem's finest.

Birth of the Candy Lady

2010-11-30T13:47:00.000-08:00

So remember the Chocolate Wonderland series? Welp, my friend requested candy land version- she got a major sweet tooth. Thanks to years of candy consumption and an awesome model, I whipped up the following. Diabetics pace yourself...

Thank You Stacey

Mirage Inc. Talent Showcase in Newark!

2010-11-19T13:48:00.000-08:00

Keep sleeping on Jersey if you want to. There's a whole lot of talent and inspiration out there and I'm glad to be a part of it. My girls at Mirage Inc. orchestrated an awesome night of art and music at Mirror Lounge in Newark, NJ. Congrats ladies!

Happy Birthday MiMi!

2010-11-19T13:04:00.000-08:00

Some friends are family and you love them for it. I was glad to do a live portrait of one of the sweetest people I know, my girl Michelle!

Showing at Macy's

2010-11-18T12:33:00.000-08:00

On Nov. 13th Latosha Thomas, Farida Aliyu, and I had the opportunity to display our work at the Tyson's Corner Macy's in Virginia. Funny, right? I painted live, sipped some warm cider, and vibed to the tunes of DJ Adrian Loving. Photos by Angel Novello.

It's Friday...

2010-11-18T11:57:00.000-08:00

A comrade of mine, Matt Williams, hosted a great evening of readings and poetry at his crib in Bedstuy. The featured poet was Janis Nicole (NicTowns.com). I did an installation in his hallway. Its always a blessing when people incorporate my art into their homes. I tried a different style and it came out fresh. Gonna be doing more like it.

Kicken it w/ 9th Wonder

2010-11-07T17:54:00.000-08:00

9th Wonder is one of my favorite producers of all time. Imagine my excitement when I saw him on The Yard during Howard Homecoming. Imagine the surprise when they featured my work in Big Remo's video 'Hey Ladies.' Check it below.

Howard Univ. Homecoming 2010

2010-11-03T09:24:00.000-07:00

So Homecoming was a blur. A bit of my soul is still recovering from the week I spent in DC celebrating w/ my fellow Bison. Nevertheless I still went hard in the paint. Check it

Spoke to my sister's 6th grade class in NE DC. Did a live piece and some acrylic tattoos.

Piece I submitted for auction at CR8 Space Gallery.

Proceeds go to young Black males college fund.

On the yard. Gettin loose.

Live painting at HU Book Store

Live painting at Boys and Girls Club Charity/ Fundraiser coliseumapparel.com

Window Seats- The Harlem Pop Mural

2010-11-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

So I had an awesome opportunity to do my first mural in Harlem at Harlem Pop, located on 126th and 5th avenue. I entitled the piece 'Window Seats' as if this were a scene you could catch riding in a taxi through Harlem. The video was shot and edited by Theo Hollingsworth. Please, share it and let me know what you think.

Heart Gallery- Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2010-10-25T22:10:00.000-07:00

The Heart Gallery was awesome Sunday Night. Aside from painting and chillen with kool people, I got to hear Trezure Empire perform before she goes to Japan. She's a dope singer, who captures beautiful energy and emotions in her music. Also peep the painting and let me know what you think. It's for sale!

Rock Star. For Sale. 24x36 in. acrylic

Warming of the House. A Painting for Flo.

2010-10-25T21:41:00.000-07:00

I paint live at all events. I just want to be around good people and fun times while doing it. Thanks Flo for having me a part of your house warming in BK and feeling my fridge with food to take home.

Contact me for all events. I'll be happy to come paint.

Live Painting at Love Jones NYC- Art of the Rock Star

2010-10-21T11:46:00.000-07:00

As usual had a great night of entertainment, food, and love for J. Harris' monthly event Love Jones NYC. The painting went with the theme of the night, "Art of the Rock Star."

The Brooklyn Bridge Project

2010-10-19T12:08:00.000-07:00

I was able to collab with the homie Quawee of Life.Love.Lenses Productions on this dope project we did on the Brooklyn Bridge. Check me painting on the bridge and speaking about my past year as an artist and the lessons i've learned.

Nzinga the Back Tat, aka Poison

2010-10-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

Shout out to the homie for giving me this challenging tasks of interpreting her tattoo. There's a lot going on with it. A lot of room for interpretation and inspiration. But I'll leave you with these beloved words by three gentlemen from Baltimore:

"It's driving me out of my mind

That's why it's hard for me to find

Can't get it outta my head

Miss her, kiss her, love her, wrong move you're dead

That girl is poison

Never trust a big butt and smile

That girl is poison poison..."

-Bel Biv Devoe

Oh My Goddess

2010-09-28T09:54:00.001-07:00

My favorite paintings to do come from original ideas and concepts, many of which aren't my own. I like to make pieces personal to my "clients" so that they will make it part of their lives and share it with their loved ones.

My homegirl Al (who is a real dope photographer) gave me a challenging and exciting concept. She wanted the goddess Lakshmi, depicted as a black woman with locks. So thats what I did, all while incorporating objects that are important to Al.

To see the process of how this painting was created click here

The Leo Project

2010-09-27T15:28:00.001-07:00

The Lion- Brave, courageous, and all that other stuff. Basically explains my homegirl Alisha who.... well... is a leo. She's also a lion.

The Heart Gallery, September edition

2010-09-27T11:55:00.000-07:00

Something special is happening in Montclair, NJ and I'm just happy to be a part of it. The last Sunday of every month the Heart Gallery hosts a night of live music, poetry, art, wine tasting and everything in between.

Here's a piece entitled "the seed." Its about establishing relationships to build community.

24x36, acrylic, for sale

Ehvonnae Boutique- The Guardian

2010-09-27T11:29:00.000-07:00

Got a chance to put a piece in the newly opened accessories boutique Ehvonnae (145 Front St. Brooklyn, NY). Had some fun with this one. She's the guardian of the store so dont try anything slick.

Air Tight's Revenge Listening Party

2010-09-27T11:00:00.000-07:00

In the middle of the September I had the chance to paint at a listening party for Bilal. It was awesome. His new album "Air Tight's Revenge" is in stores now. Check out this dope interview to hear more about the album.

Love ones NYC- Live Painting

2010-09-23T09:41:00.000-07:00

As you can assume from the name, Love Jones NYC is about bringing love to the city. So how appropriate that my inspiration for the night came from the homie, Toyosi. Love is this girl's philosophy and it pours out of here wherever she goes. 3 cheers for love!

ART WHINO- DC

2010-09-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

Art Whino was dizzzzzzope! Big thanks to Shane at Art Whino and the Beautiful Nightmare crew for plugging me with this great opportunity to build with the DC creative community. Got two pieces completed on Saturday. Peep below.

colored kisses 24x36

Moment in Time, 24x36, acrylic

Labor Day Weekend- Gettin Busy

2010-09-07T12:40:00.000-07:00

Had a great time in DC this weekend. I was able to paint for Johnnie Walker's Raw Listening party for the 'Evol Genius' EP. Also was able to paint for my sister's new crib- had to give a proper house warming gift. Now back to staying busy as usual.

The Evol Genius (live painting), 24x36

House Warming, 24x36

Live Painting at The Heart Gallery

2010-08-30T11:34:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday night was super dope. Made it out to The Heart Gallery in Montclair, NJ for a night of live music, dance, poetry, and a beautiful crowd. Make sure to catch it on the last sunday of every month. It's awesome. And special thanks to Tina B. for adding my work to her home.

"Things We Love" 24x36, Acrylic

EHVONNAE.com opens in DUMBO, BK

2010-08-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

So the ATL homie recently launched her online accessories' and its kinda awesome. Now she's taking it to the streets and is opening her physical store in Dumbo, BK. She asked me to come scribble on this pillar that's in the middle of her store and I had to do it. You know how much I like writing on walls. Painting this pillar had me going in circles, literally. Fun times nonetheless tho. Make sure to stop by and check out her store, Ehvonnae at 145 Front st., and of course online at Ehvonnae.com

Pistola Red- Happy Birthday Sharon

2010-08-20T09:46:00.000-07:00

Never thought about doing red before till the homie mentioned it to me. I like it. I wonder what the next one will look like?

Live Painting at Greenhouse- The Crystal Merchant

2010-08-20T09:42:00.000-07:00

For Sale. "The Crystal Merchant". 24x36. Acrylic

Chocolate Wonderlands

2010-08-07T15:05:00.000-07:00

This past week I had the challenging tasks of creating my own chocolate wonderlands. It was tough. Lots and lots of research. Stop by Suklaa Outdoor Lounge in Brooklyn (Nostrand Ave and Dekalb) to see my pieces.

Feel Better

2010-07-27T11:51:00.000-07:00

So I've been on my abstract kick lately. The color and brush strokes brightens up the mood. Thats why I had to call it, "Feel Better."

(15x30'' individual canvas, 30x60'' together)

The Elements

2010-07-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

This is a 4 part piece I like to call 'The Elements'. I represented the 4 elements of Hip Hop through color, patterns, and stencils. I cant take credit for this idea alone. I'd like to thank Captain Planet, Avatar the Last Airbender, and everyday people that keep that art form alive that is known as Hip Hop.

15x30" individual canvas, 60x30' together

2 SHOWS ONE SUNDAY

2010-07-21T09:29:00.000-07:00

Yup, two shows, one Sunday. It truly is the Lord's day. Brian Monteiro and myself will be displaying our work at The Vault (sneaker store) from 2-6pm. Later, at 6:30pm, come kick it with us for some live painting and open mic performances at the 'Speak Easy,' 383 lenox ave between 129th & 130th st.

The Urban Equestrian- Art Inspired by Polo Ralph Lauren

2010-07-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

Polo enthusiasts, your prayers have been answered. Big bro, Artist TTK, is back at it again. I'm excited to see what new pieces he'll be dropping on us. Dont need to say much more. August 6th, be there.

Black Comix Week

2010-07-14T21:31:00.000-07:00

So it's Black Comix Week in NY. Indeed.

BLACK COMIX NYC SCHEDULE

July 14, 6 – 9 p.m.

Meet & Greet

House of Art

373 Lewis Avenue

Brooklyn, NY

RSVP NOW

July 15, 6 – 11 p.m.

Official Pre-Release Party

6p-11p

MADAME X

94 West Houston Street

New York, NY

RSVP NOW

July 17

HARLEM BOOK FAIR

Panel Discussion: From Digital Divide to Digital Inequality: Bridging the Market-driven Literacy Gap

(Live Broadcast C-Span2)

Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

515 Malcolm X Boulevard

New York, NY 10030

RSVP NOW

For more information, visit the official Black Comix blog.

Feature in the Liberator Magazine

2010-07-13T09:37:00.000-07:00

So if you haven't checked out the LIBERATOR MAGAZINE! your missing out on some dope art and culture! I love this grass roots based magazine not only because the content is rich and entertaining, but they also throw dope parties. Anyways, check the feature and let me know what you think. Its entitled James Shields: Bridging Harlem's Past and Present.

Thanks Shamira (the author of the article) for coming through and chillen. Had a great time talking your ear off.

Birthday Paint Party with VASHLUV

2010-07-12T17:01:00.000-07:00

Had a great time 4th of July weekend thanks to my sister in the grind, VASHLUV. She brought in her birthday with good friends, music, some fresh fruit, and of course- paint! We all got busy that night. Check it:

Paint on your walls? No doubt!

2010-06-02T13:50:00.000-07:00

So i'm in DC this past weekend and the homie zack just so happened to be moving into his new apartment. You know it had to go down. With the help of my home girl Farida, I was able to bless his living room in the span of of one night. We worked on two walls in the room. I'm sure I'll add some more to the painting next time i'm in DC.

Sunday Morning on the Block

2010-05-24T23:41:00.000-07:00

Sunday was pretty dope. I had a showing at my neighborhood tea lounge in Harlem, Tea and Things of That Kind. They have live gospel on sundays and some bomb smoothies. Having my work on display outside was a great way to spend a few hours on a Sunday. Who knows, I might be coming to a block near you some time soon.

DAP!

2010-05-11T09:07:00.000-07:00

Dap, 30x40, Acrylic, sold

The Fist is a versatile image. It evokes power, hard work, and even friendship. Go on head and dap up your homie. Spread the Love.

Cookin in the Kitchen! Mother's Day addition

2010-05-10T14:04:00.000-07:00

So the magic kept flowing the day of my sister's graduation. My live painting went so well, one of the homies, Yolanda, wanted me to do a piece for her place. How could I pass up another opportunity to bust out the paints in Greensboro? So, that night we take it back to my sister's kitchen and I get to work. The following is what happens over the next 5 hours. I finished some time around 2:30am Mother's Day morning.

LIL SIS GRADUATES AND I PAINT HER A PICTURE!

2010-05-10T13:30:00.000-07:00

So it went down this weekend in honor of my baby sis graduating from Bennet College in Greensboro, NC. What better way to celebrate than with a live painting at her graduation party? It was a particulary dope session because I was able to paint along some great musicians who had my head boppin and feet tappin to the jazzy rhythms throughout the party. CONGRATULATIONS BROOKIE!

Spring Paintings

2010-04-24T08:33:00.000-07:00

So my goal for the Spring group show was to do a series focusing on women. I finished two pieces.

The first, Window Seat, was named after Erykah Badu's video. It shows vulnerability and fearlessness as we continue to outgrow the expectations and boxes that people try to place us in. The second, Rest in Peace, is about being comfortable and cool. Going to that mental and relaxing safe haven. Check em:

Window Seat, 30x40, Acrylic

sold

Rest In Peace, 24x36, Acrylic

For Sale

BZZ BZZ TWEET TWEET!! GROUP ART SHOW- RECAP

2010-04-24T08:07:00.000-07:00

L-R: Brian Monteiro, Aasiya Townsell, Farida Aliyu, Me, Latosha Thomas

Aasiya Townsell

Brian Monteiro

Farida Aliyu

Nice Crowd

Johnnie Walker @spaghettiboys

Latosha Thomas

Aasiya Townsell (left) Farida Aliyu (right)

LIVE PAINTING at CHE GRAND'S .99 CENTS PARTY

2010-04-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

Last night was awesome. I painted live for the first time at Che Grand's annual hip hop show at Don Pedros, in Brooklyn. Yesterday, Guru, one of my favorite emcees and 1/2 of the legendary group GANGSTARR passed away after a long battle with cancer. I felt it only right to do a piece for someone who was monumental in my love for hip hop and jazz.

The different colored lights had the painting looking all sorts of crazed colors. Because the lights were never turned off I still dont know what the actual painting looks like. Nevertheless, it was a dope and unforgettable experience.

Photography by Emperess Michelle

Peep the difference with the lights on and off. REST IN POWER GURU!

Feature in Bleu Magazine

2010-04-01T11:12:00.000-07:00

So here's this feature of myself in Bleu Magazine. The interview took place in December and its funny how much has happened within the past couple months. Check it out. Take a glimpse into my mind. lol. You can download the PDF version directly from here!

*Side Note- Ryan Leslie and Myself went to same high school. Bear Creek Stand Up! hahaha

BZZ BZZ TWEET TWEET!! GROUP ART SHOW

2010-04-01T09:32:00.000-07:00

My Howard University and DC family have been supporting me like crazy since I started this creative journey. Art is only as big as the community that supports it, so I figured I'd just give this growing community a bigger selection. I teamed up with four other homies/artists/superheroes to put on this bomb art show in DC on April 17th. We will be at {CR8} Space Gallery- 1314 9th NW (9th and N).

And bring your dancing shoes too. Dont say I didn't warn you. Lol.

Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler

2010-03-24T08:19:00.001-07:00

So here's a house warming painting commissioned by my good friend Jabari. He's traveled the world and met amazing people. Everyone will tell you that he carries the Mardi Gras spirit of partying and hospitality with him wherever he goes. I tried my best to capture that energy within the piece. "Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler" is French for "Let the good times role." And to that I say indeed... carry on and let these good times role.

Peace and Love, ep.2

2010-03-08T13:34:00.000-08:00

Peace and Love, 20x30, mixed media

So here's the second piece in a series I am working on entitled 'Peace & Love'. Malcolm and Martin changed the world and my life. They preached peace and love and died tragic violent deaths. Talk about living and dying for your dreams.

The Black History Month That Was...

2010-03-01T09:59:00.000-08:00

First I would like to thank God and the Ancestors for blessing me during this very special month. So many events went down and so many celebrations went up. My goal was a painting a week, I almost got there- 3 outta 4 aint that bad. Here's the visual recap below. All are up for sale.

Peace and Love, 18x24, acrylic

Sweet Dreams, 24x36, acrylic

God Bless America, 24x36, acrylic

Adonis Black TV comes to Harlem!!!

2010-02-24T15:36:00.000-08:00

Momma I made it! And I got the kimono to prove it. Sike... I wish. But I did make it to Adonis Black TV in one of my very first interviews. Check out some of my work, my Harlem Studio (aka palace of the royal futon, my bedroom). Check out his work online and follow him on twitter, @adonisblacktv. He's hysterical I tell you.

youtube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ts_ek3M7m1E

Community Arts Gathering & Fundraiser!

2010-02-17T11:55:00.000-08:00

Thats Right. Black History Month continues to bring more dopeness with a community art show Hosted by the Black and Latino Student Caucus at La Pregunta Arts Cafe (135 and Amsterdam) on Feb. 26th. I'll be featuring some new pieces I've worked during this month. Complimentary drinks and a variety of appetizers will be on deck! Thats right, get your snack on.

$5-$10 donations are suggested at the door as all money donated will benefit NYC Arts Empowerment in Public Schools and ongoing relief to Haiti. Hope to see you there!

LUV BUG

2010-01-23T11:02:00.000-08:00

This one goes out to Krismin the School Teacher. In the process of painting something completely different I ended up with these killa, kuwala, ninja, care bears. Nevertheless- mission accomplished. Why we go crazy trying to make things perfect and seem look a certain way. The happiest creatures aint that damn happy and the grass aint that greener- i'm just saying. Just do you and dont bug out over the situation. It was never suppose to be a care bear, perfect world.

OH SNAP! IT'S THE 2010 LOOKBOOK

2010-01-21T22:32:00.000-08:00

Check it! My lookbook for 2010. Feel free to download it (below) and share it with your friends and fam. It was shot by my good friend, DC-based photographer Diana Rising (Morgan Brown). Let me know what you think.

***LOOKBOOK 2010***

CREATIVE DREAMS- THE VIDEO

2010-01-04T22:16:00.000-08:00

I know a lot of you who wanted to make it to my debut show weren't able to, but its all good. Thanks to Johnny Walker (yes, thats his govt. name) and his Spaghetti Boys' Production were able to watch it live and in HD! hahahaha!!!

youtube link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQHD8KuNrjM

Holiday Recap

2009-12-29T17:42:00.000-08:00

This was one of my most productive holiday breaks ever. All I did was kick it, eat, and paint. Here's a lil visual recap:

I met Kurupt in the JFK airport! Helluva a way to start the trip.

Delivered my favorite painting, Rescusitation, to the church fam Kelley. Thanks for the love and support!

Merry Christmas Mom. New piece entitled 'The Last Supper'. Explains why my siblings are so much bigger than I.

Proud mom displaying the two new pieces I finished while at the crib

Up with Hope! Up with Dope!

2009-12-26T18:16:00.000-08:00

I'd like to start this post by saying "WEST SIDE!" Thats right, I made it back to Cali for the holidays and I had to do the dang thang in the parental's living room. This goes out to one of my best friends from Stockton, CA, Ant, who made growing up in Stockton a dope experience.

The piece is entitled "The Dopeness." Life is constantly changing (represented by the motions in the painting) and its up to us to realize the positivity in our situation instead of being taken aback by the negative. Simply put- just find the dopeness in life. "Up With Hope and Up with Dope!"

Also, I must credit the movie 'The Wackness' for inspiring me to paint the philosophy of dopeness. See the movie, I found it hella tight.

Skateboards. Yes, I design them.

2009-12-02T19:29:00.000-08:00

So I design skate decks. I guess not many people knew that. But I do. These are the ones I've done so far. Most were done during my senior year at Howard University. Click on the decks below to see them enlarged.