Artists to Know: 10 Black Artists You Should Meet
In honor of Black History Month, we’re introducing you to 10 Black artists each week you can support year round. iCanvas would be nothing without our diverse family of creators, and we’re proud to play a role in increasing representation of artists who are historically underrepresented across the industry. We hope you find a new favorite creator.
From Nigeria to Philadelphia, these 10 Black artists take inspiration from their personal lives and the world around them. Their art represents diversity, conveys raw human emotions, and celebrates Black Girl Magic in expressive forms. With a wide span of themes, their artwork aims to uplift your spirit, invigorate your confidence, and spark introspection.
Whether you’re into pop culture, striking abstracts, delicate nudes, or fierce fashions, this mix of artists contains a variety of styles and subjects. Keep scrolling to meet just a few of the many Black artists we’re proud to partner with.
1. Princella Seripenah
Based in Moscow, Princella Seripenah creates digital illustrations of stylish and comfortable women to express the beauty of the Black experience. These wholesome and uplifting prints center around “mental health, self-identity, and messages of hope” to help you embrace your unique qualities. Her dedication to care and wellness shines through in her prints depicting fearless ladies, peaceful settings, and body confidence.
Click here to see more of Princella Seripenah’s art on iCanvas.
2. Oronde Kairi
Philadelphia native Oronde Kairi strives to connect people with his art through relatable, powerful, and emotional storytelling. Captivated by vibrant street art as a child, his paintings reflect bold energy while “thematically addressing poetry, jazz, and sports”. From pop culture portraits with punches of color to art with messages of advocacy and love, each print is full of character and soul. To learn more about what drives his creative expressions, read our 5 Questions interview with Oronde.
Click here to see more of Oronde Kairi’s art on iCanvas.
3. Fred Odle
As a self-taught artist, Fred Odle’s lively paintings of people are filled with feelings. His inspiration for staying creative is sparking child-like wonder through playing games and making music. With displays of Black expressions, abstract rainbow faces, and carefree dancing, his artwork showcases a mix of brilliant and bright energy. Showcased across the USA, the Caribbean, and South America, his vivid artwork can make your space feel expressive and colorful.
Click here to see more of Fred Odle’s art on iCanvas.
4. Giancarlo Laguerta
Preferring his art to speak for itself, Giancarlo LaGuerta’s passion for freedom and individualism is shown throughout his work. His digital collages and photographs of humans capture raw and passionate emotions. While photos can be direct reflections of who we are, he believes this form of art can also reveal deeper insight into people’s worlds. His intimate nude photographs and evocative prints exude poetic and thought-provoking energy.
5. Bri Pippens
Celebrating and embracing Black Girl Magic, Bri Pippens creates illustrations that center around “race, nostalgia, and the nuances of Black identity and experiences”. Her empowering spirit is revealed through her eccentric depictions of people. From motivational typography prints about self-love to pop culture icons to inspirational women, her prints give off invigorating and encouraging vibes. Her influential art has the power to help you set up an inspirational space and has even been appreciated by Taraji P. Henson, Ava DuVernay, and Viola Davis.
Click here to see more of Bri Pippens’ art on iCanvas.
6. TJ Agbo
Explaining “social justice is only a part of the story of black people”, TJ Agbo’s artwork emphasizes on the missing pieces of that narrative. Based in London, his creations represent the true beauty of the human form and display expressions in abstract ways. His mixed media portraits give off a range of emotions by showcasing skin in creative and interesting ways. With exciting colors and bold patterns, his prints are filled with introspective energy and deep meaning.
Click here to see more of TJ Agbo’s art on iCanvas.
7. Lanre Studio
Lanre Studio creates a variety of famous people, adorable animals, and U.S. locations full of colors and shapes. His adventurous neo-pop prints are a reflection of his desire to “invigorate people’s spirits and brighten their lives”. This positive energy is seen throughout all of his artwork from multi-patterned dogs to energetic displays of influential Black leaders to maximalist depictions of Washington D.C.
Click here to see more of Lanre Studio’s art on iCanvas.
8. Janet Adenike Adebayo
Based in Lagos, Nigeria, Janet Adenike Adebayo’s abstract paintings are derived from her own personal experiences and fantasies. Using rich colors, she mostly creates faceless human figures, letting the audience develop their own emotional reaction. While her art mainly comes from her life, she also wants her art to speak for people whose voices are not heard. From delicate dancing to family connection to human intimacy, her artwork is filled with powerful messages that can help add thought-provoking vibes to your space.
While no longer an iCanvas partner, you can check out more of this artist’s work here.
9. Brooke Ashley
As a fashion illustrator and designer, Brooke Ashley celebrates diversity and body confidence with her prints of stylish women. Inspired by “art, music, and culture”, her portraits radiate female empowerment and positive self-image. From high heeled gals on the move to ladies in cozy sweaters to friends in fresh fits, her artwork is full of personality and poise – great for adding inspirational and optimistic energy to any space.
Click here to see more of Brooke Ashley’s art on iCanvas.
10. Stacey Brown
Focusing on colorful displays of people, Stacey Brown expresses himself with paintings on acrylic glass and watercolor on paper. He sticks to his roots by taking inspiration from “urban neighborhood scenes that exude keen observations of everyday life.” His vibrant prints of families and groups showcase community camaraderie and the joy of beautiful bonds. You may have noticed his abstract scenes of life on TV shows such as Uncle Buck, Hawaii 5-0, The Odd Couple, and many more.
Click here to see more of Stacey Brown’s art on iCanvas.
Limited Edition Art Feature
The following print featured in this blog is available only as a Limited Edition. Click-through to shop this prints while it lasts!
It’s an ongoing priority for iCanvas to increase the diversity of artists on our site, and we are thrilled to continue growing our partnerships with Black artists. Get to know more Black artists on our blog and explore our growing collection of art by Black artists to find creators you can support this month and beyond.