artist statement

My style derives from graffiti worn buildings and telephone poles decorated with hanging sneakers that honor memories of local legends. To Saturday morning cartoons and comic books celebrating the triumphs of mythological heroes. I was sent here to tell stories. Traditionally my medium may have been words or incantation. In the now I have my brushes, aerosol cans and whatever else I can use to visually relay the many images and messages that are sent to me. My work is a peak into my mind and I deal in codified synapses and coagulated liquid pigments

I was born with my eyes open so I’ve seen a lot. I have watched the co-modification and debasement of ancient precepts. Magic and incantation have been replaced by the commercialization of the sacred. I am a master visual technician with innumerable stories to tell. Let me know when you’re ready to see one.

artist biography

Being exposed to a variety of Cinema from Black exploitation to Science Fiction, it was clear to Hebru Brantley that he wanted to express himself visually. With art collectors as parents he was exposed to works of such wide range of masters such as Romare Bearden, Keith Haring, Basquiat and Black Folk art. Toppled with an affinity for mythogical comic heroes and Japanese anime Hebru style began infusing those two worlds. While attending Film school in Atlanta he began working in design and illustration for media production and clothing companies. A former graffiti artist Hebru transitioned from wall to canvas and started making a name for himself in the Atlanta contemporary art scene.

His paintings depict beings that are triumphantly defiant with raw emotion that at times draw from youthful expression. They capture the universal essence of the human condition through an energetic portrayal of urban characters. The work comes about spontaneously, utilizing a vast aerie of mediums such as woods, found objects, spray paint, coffee and tea. He constructs multi-layered, textured environments easily likened to the complexities of contemporary urban life. He feels it’s his job to tell the story’s of his peer’s and the times which they occupy.

The self taught illustrator/painter is hard at play to establish his place in the modern art movement as a master of fine art and product design. As well as create an artist movement with his contemporaries unlike anyone in Chicago has ever seen.