Works in Graphite & Charcoal
Queen Artisté
The piece captures the depth and spirit of a woman who remains a constant source of inspiration. It holds a unique history within this collection; while working on set, I had the distinct honor of sharing this portrait with Ms. Allen personally. Experiencing her warm reception and appreciation for the work was a profound moment of connection with a living legend.
Basset (Malcolm X)
This graphite study captures the strength and poise of Angela Bassett in her transformative role as Dr. Betty Shabazz in Malcolm X. The portrait focuses on the subtle interplay of light and shadow, highlighting the quiet intensity and grace that Bassett brought to this historic performance. It serves as an exploration of character and the powerful presence of a cinema legend.
Phillipe
This graphite study captures the nostalgic charm of a traditional Mariachi doll, brought back from Cancun, Mexico. The drawing highlights the intricate details of the iconic traje de charro, from the decorative embroidery on the jacket to the classic wide-brimmed sombrero resting behind the figure. Through soft shading and careful contrast, this piece transforms a cherished souvenir into a thoughtful exploration of cultural heritage and memory.
Akhenaten
This graphite study explores the enigmatic presence of Akhenaten, the pharaoh who famously revolutionized ancient Egyptian art and religion. The drawing utilizes high-contrast shading to emphasize the distinct, elongated features that define Akhenaten’s historical depictions. By focusing on the structural lines of the nemes headdress and the somber depth of the eyes, the piece captures a sense of the ancient past—half-hidden in shadow, yet undeniably powerful.
Good Times
An intricate black-and-white pencil drawing titled "Good Times," portraying a couple from the 1980s. The artwork, rendered in a realistic, textured style, shows a man in a pinstriped suit, tie, and floral lapel pin sitting beside a woman with voluminous, wavy hair. The woman is leaning against him, her head resting on his shoulder, and she holds a lit cigarette between her fingers and a glass of iced beverage. The man has a thoughtful, weary expression, while the woman looks out at the viewer with an intense, direct gaze. The composition is based on a found photograph from the 1980s.
Easy
A charcoal portrait on 9x12 paper of Denzel Washington as Easy Rawlins in Devil in a Blue Dress, depicted from a three-quarter angle.
Wolfman
This graphite study on charcoal paper captures a transformation in progress, blending human weariness with lupine features. The textured grain of the paper enhances the coarse, layered application of the beard and mane, providing a rugged contrast to the more soulful, precise rendering of the eyes.
Vito
This mixed-media profile captures the quiet authority of Vito Corleone, utilizing deep charcoal tones to define the iconic silhouette. The composition is anchored by the singular use of red acrylic paint for the lapel rose, creating a striking focal point that symbolizes both elegance and the weight of the character's legacy.
Abyssinian Girl
This graphite study on charcoal paper serves as a tribute to Charles Cordier’s renowned 19th-century ethnographic sculpture, Abyssinian Girl. The piece meticulously translates the bronze and marble textures of the original bust into a play of light and shadow, capturing the grace and quiet melancholy of the subject.
Sioux Elder
his charcoal portrait captures the profound wisdom and enduring strength of a Sioux elder. Utilizing a raw, expressive application of charcoal, the piece emphasizes the deep-etched lines of the subject’s face, telling a story of a life lived with resilience and dignity.
Seated Lady
This charcoal life drawing, completed from a live model, demonstrates a careful study of human anatomy and the graduated play of light. The composition is grounded by a visible value scale at the top, reflecting the artist's focus on translating three-dimensional form into a balanced range of highlights and deep shadows.
Old Man
This charcoal portrait captures a gentleman from a bygone era, rendered with a focus on dramatic chiaroscuro. The heavy shadowing on the right side of the face creates a sense of mystery and depth, while the sharp highlights on the forehead and collar bring the subject into immediate focus against the soft, atmospheric background.
Works in Acrylic & Mixed Media
Word to the Bad
This vibrant mixed-media piece captures the "King of Pop" in his iconic military-inspired regalia, blending classical portraiture with contemporary urban elements. Originally featured in the High Museum of Art’s 2020-2021 Virtual Student Exhibition, the work serves as a bold celebration of Michael Jackson’s lasting impact on global pop culture.
Jackie B
This acrylic painting celebrates the enduring cool and cinematic legacy of Pam Grier, specifically channeling her iconic role in Jackie Brown. Set against a vibrant periwinkle backdrop, the piece blends realistic portraiture with bold, graphic typography to bridge the gap between 90s cinema and contemporary culture.
Reflections of Glory
This acrylic painting depicts an iconic moment of reflection and triumph, capturing Kobe Bryant in the aftermath of the 2001 NBA Finals. The work juxtaposes the raw, solitary emotion of the champion with a delicate floral motif, offering a poetic interpretation of one of basketball’s most legendary images. In 2021 "Reflections of Glory" was featured in The Las Laguna Art Gallery in Laguna Beach, California.
Ja Wick
This colored pencil portrait offers a provocative commentary on a pivotal moment in Ja Morant's career, specifically addressing the controversy surrounding his gun scandal. The piece captures the athlete in his Memphis Grizzlies uniform, juxtaposing his professional identity with a direct reference to the off-court events that sparked a national conversation.
Blue Makaveli
This acrylic portrait captures the intense and visionary spirit of Tupac Shakur during the final chapter of his life. Immersed in a striking monochromatic environment, the work explores the legendary artist's persona through a bold, saturated lens.
The Queen of Sheba
This large-scale acrylic painting serves as a monumental tribute to Dorothy Dandridge, capturing the groundbreaking star in a setting that radiates golden-age glamour and untamed strength. Standing at 3ft x 4ft, this is the artist's most expansive work to date, utilizing the increased surface area to create a commanding presence that mirrors Dandridge’s own historic impact on cinema.
King of Punk Funk
This evocative portrait captures the raw charisma and unmistakable style of Rick James, the legendary figure who defined an era of music. The piece serves as a vibrant tribute to the rebellious spirit and high-octane energy of the "Punk Funk" movement.
Throw Me My Roses
A masterful tribute to a living legend, Throw Me My Roses celebrates the profound legacy of Lil Wayne. This portrait honors a true hero of our hometown, New Orleans, capturing the spirit of a pioneer who redefined the landscape of hip-hop.In a deeply meaningful moment for the work, the artist's mother viewed the painting and described it as "beautiful," adding a layer of personal validation to this hometown tribute.
Paparazzi Flash
This striking portrait captures the enigmatic aura and avant-garde style of a global musical icon. The piece immortalizes the artist's legendary stage presence and boundary-pushing fashion. The name "Prince" is boldly spray-painted in a red graffiti font, merging high-glam with distinct grit.
Ponce Beyond The Glovebox
This evocative architectural landscape offers a unique, first-person perspective of one of Atlanta’s most recognizable landmarks. Featured in the 2022 Atlanta Dogwood Festival, Ponce Beyond the Glovebox captures a fleeting, everyday moment transformed into a lasting impression of the city.
Rufus
This intimate animal portrait captures the soulful character and loyal gaze of a canine companion named Rufus. The artwork demonstrates a shift toward a more focused, minimalist composition that emphasizes the subject's personality.