The Black Fist below are based on the history and the experience of the PEOPLE. Every piece is copyrighted under the Black Fist Series©® franchise. For merch, click here.
Black Fist Series: The Perception
HUEY
18 x 24
Acrylic, fabric, hair on canvas
Huey was the very first piece in the Black Fist Series, embodying a powerful blend of pain, strength, and courage through its layered subliminal messages. This painting captures the essence of the Black Panther Party, a movement often misunderstood and vilified in mainstream America. Despite being seen as a threat, the Black Panthers devoted themselves to community empowerment and social justice, efforts that largely went unrecognized at the time.
Founded in 1966 by Huey P. Newton and Bobby Seale, the Black Panther Party stood as a symbol of resilience and resistance until its dissolution in 1982. Huey's portrayal pays homage to their legacy, reminding us of the courage it took to confront systemic oppression and the profound impact they had on the fight for equality.
MotherEarth
7.5 x 24
Acrylic, spray paint, fabric, hair, gold bracelets, jewels on skateboard
Watching the TV show Captain Planet, Kwame stood out prominently. He wore the coolest ring of them all — the Earth ring. This symbol was more than just a source of his powers; it signified the very foundation of life, rooted deeply in Africa, the continent where everything began. Africa’s vast natural resources have sustained humanity for millennia, making Kwame’s Earth ring a powerful representation of origin and responsibility.
The broken skateboard from my childhood mirrors this same theme of fragility and challenge. I remember trying to skateboard, though I was never very skilled at it. The fractured state of the skateboard parallels the way society, much like my childhood attempts, struggles and stumbles. More importantly, it reflects how humanity is breaking and damaging Mother Earth—our shared home. Just as the skateboard bears the scars of wear, so does our planet show the marks of exploitation and neglect, reminding us of the urgent need to protect and restore it.
Just Listen!
7.5 x 23.5
Acrylic, fabric, hair on skateboard
The show Rugrats on Nickelodeon left a lasting impression on many, especially through memorable characters like Suzie—the lone Black/Afro American figure in the series. Her boldness, sass, and confidence made her stand out, resonating deeply as a representation of individuality and strength in a predominantly homogenous cast.
Inspired by this, the piece titled Just Listen honors the often-overlooked children who are quiet and reserved in school. It serves as a powerful reminder that meaningful connection begins with truly listening—not merely waiting to respond, but seeking to understand. By embracing this approach, conversations can open doors to empathy and unseen stories, enriching our interactions and perspectives.
We Don’t Bluff!
16 x 20
Acrylic, fabric, hair on canvas
"We don’t bluff" captures the essence of my city with authenticity. This artwork, the second in a series inspired by the TV show Doug, bridges our real-life neighborhood—the Bluff—with the fictional city of the same name. The show’s exploration of adolescence, social challenges, and the quest to belong resonated deeply with me. Among the characters, Patti Mayonnaise stood out as a symbol of confidence and uniqueness: a brown-skinned girl with striking short blonde hair, admired by many and never afraid to speak her truth. This connection between fiction and reality reflects the struggles and strengths within our community.
Are you with me?
7.5 x 23.5
Acrylic, fabric on skateboard
This piece highlights the timeless values of friendship and loyalty that transcend skin color. Inspired by the TV show Doug, it reminds us of the genuine bond between Doug and his best friend Skeeter. Skeeter stood by Doug through every challenge, embodying unwavering support regardless of their differences. Their friendship symbolized unity in diversity, showing that true connection goes beyond race.
Reflecting on personal experiences, growing up with friends from various racial backgrounds offered a unique perspective. Feeling different from the norm often led to embracing diversity naturally. These friendships teach us that acceptance and loyalty are the foundations of meaningful relationships, proving that skin complexion should never define or limit who we connect with or trust.
Melanin Gold
16 x 20
Acrylic on canvas
Melanin, a natural pigment ranging from dark brown to black, plays a crucial role in the protection and identity of Black skin. Found in hair, skin, and the iris of the eye, melanin acts as a natural sunblock, absorbing ultraviolet radiation and reducing the risk of damage from sun exposure. This biological function not only shields but also contributes to the skin's ability to tan when exposed to sunlight.
Beyond its physical properties, melanin holds profound cultural and spiritual significance. On a philosophical plane, it is viewed as a black, chemical-biological gateway through which the life force of African spirituality transitions from the spirit to the material realm. This perspective elevates melanin beyond mere pigmentation, positioning it as a vital essence connecting African heritage, identity, and spirituality.
Nutritional intake can influence melanin production, with certain foods supporting its synthesis. Nuts, legumes, almonds, peanuts, dried beans, dark leafy greens, avocados, bananas, chocolate, and whole grains are among the foods known to enhance melanin levels. Incorporating these into the diet promotes not only skin health but also a deeper connection to the natural biological processes that define and protect Black skin.
Understanding melanin's multifaceted importance—from its protective qualities to its cultural resonance—encourages a holistic appreciation of Black identity and heritage rooted in both science and spirituality.
Fince
7.5 x 16
Acrylic, fabric, hair, wire on skateboard
The character Vince from the show Recess highlights an often-seen pattern in media where Black children are portrayed through narrow stereotypes, particularly centered around athleticism. His role as the talented athlete reflects a limited narrative imposed on Black youth, which can influence both public perception and personal expectations.
Your experience with your father's desire for you to play basketball as the “only ticket” to success clearly contrasts with your own identity and passions. It’s a powerful reminder that success and fulfillment do not come from conforming to others’ preconceived paths, especially when those paths are shaped by stereotypes. Choosing to embrace art over sports showcases individuality and the importance of pursuing one’s true calling.
The intentional misspelling of "Fince" as a metaphorical fence is a compelling artistic statement. It symbolizes the societal barriers that seek to confine Black men and boys, with the wire imagery evoking the harsh reality of systemic incarceration and oppression. This powerful representation underscores the struggles faced and the resilience needed to break free from those metaphorical fences.
Your perspective adds depth to a conversation about identity, representation, and personal freedom beyond stereotypical frameworks—highlighting the need for broader, more nuanced portrayals in media and support in real life for varied ambitions and talents within Black communities.
ReBloodicans & DemoCrips
Acrylic, fabric on canvas
DemoCrips
16 x 20
Acrylic, fabric on canvas
The comparison between politics and gangs within the Black/Afro American community highlights a deep frustration with the political system. The cyclical nature of partisan battles—symbolized here by the invented factions "ReBloodicans" and "DemoCrips"—emphasizes how political parties often seem locked in conflict, vying for control without achieving meaningful progress for the people they claim to represent. This metaphor echoes the sentiments expressed in Kendrick Lamar's "Hood Politics" from his 2015 album To Pimp a Butterfly, where the reality of political and social struggles in marginalized communities is laid bare.
What stands out is the contrast drawn between traditional political actors and grassroots community members, such as gang members, who have at times found common ground to confront systemic issues like police brutality. Historically, while mainstream politics often oscillate without decisive change, communities directly affected by oppression have sometimes united across divides—for survival and resistance. The unity among gangs against police violence points to a powerful lesson: genuine solidarity and action come from shared lived experiences and mutual concern, rather than political posturing.
In this light, "Hood Politics" becomes more than a song; it serves as a critique and a call to re-examine the structures governing Black lives. It challenges listeners to consider why street-level alliances have sometimes been more effective in achieving justice than conventional political systems, stressing the need for politics rooted in real community empowerment rather than empty promises or propaganda.
Real Heroes
24.5 x 9
Acrylic on canvas
From 2000 to 2018, certain comic book characters emerged as significant cinematic figures, resonating deeply with audiences. Black Panther's introduction in Captain America: Civil War broke new ground by portraying African royalty with a blend of tradition and futuristic technology, symbolizing pride and perseverance. Luke Cage’s Netflix series brought a modern-day hero who grapples with systemic injustice and community violence, reflecting the struggles faced by many in urban environments. Cyborg’s role in the Justice League movie introduced a character whose powers are intertwined with technology, symbolizing themes of identity and acceptance in a rapidly evolving world. Meanwhile, Storm remains one of the most powerful X-Men, embodying strength, resilience, and leadership amid adversity. These characters stand out not just for their abilities but for their compelling backstories, which mirror contemporary social issues such as racial inequality, identity, and empowerment, making them some of the most inspiring and relevant heroes of their time.
No more strings
30 x 25
Acrylic, fabric and gold string on canvas
The reality of presidential power is complex. While having a Black president was a historic milestone that symbolized progress and representation, the role itself is bound by systems and structures that limit individual autonomy. Decisions about military actions and life-or-death consequences often involve a wider network of advisors, institutions, and political pressures. The symbolism of having diverse leadership is important, but it does not negate the difficult realities and ethical dilemmas that come with holding the highest office in a global superpower. Recognizing this complexity allows for a deeper discussion about power, accountability, and the path forward beyond symbolic milestones.
What about Ghana?
This piece was inspired by the flood in Ghana that no one said anything about or acknowledged.
16 x 20
Acrylic, fabric, leather on canvas
The national flag of Ghana was designed and adopted in 1957, initially flown until 1962, and reinstated in 1966. It features the Pan-African colors of red, yellow (gold), and green arranged in horizontal stripes. At the center of the gold stripe is a black five-pointed star.
Each color holds specific meaning:
Red represents the blood of those who died in the struggle for Ghana's independence.
Gold symbolizes the mineral wealth of the country.
Green stands for the rich forests and natural resources of Ghana.
The black star signifies African freedom and the unity of African people.
Together, the flag reflects Ghana's history, natural wealth, and solidarity with the Pan-African movement.
Birth of a Nation
16 x 20
Acrylic, spray paint, bible pages on canvas
I felt a profound connection while thinking about and creating this piece. Inspired by Nate Parker's film Birth of a Nation, this work reflects a powerful narrative often overlooked in mainstream historical portrayals. While many slave stories have been retold, I grew weary of them because history did not begin with slavery. This movie, however, broke that cycle and ignited a deep creative fire within me.
To convey the complex and painful reality of oppression faced by Black and Afro-American communities, I incorporated actual pages from the Bible. These pages have been deliberately chosen and torn from sections that were historically rewritten, manipulated, or used as tools of subjugation. By doing so, I aim to provide the audience with an immersive and visceral understanding of how religion was wielded to justify and sustain oppression. This piece stands not just as art, but as a testimony to resilience and the ongoing struggle for truth in history.
Yo, Gerald!
16 x 20
Acrylic, fabric, hair on canvas
Gerald's character in Hey Arnold! stood out not just as the "cool token black kid," but as a multidimensional friend who brought authenticity and depth to the group dynamic. His close friendship with Arnold highlighted themes of loyalty and diversity, reflecting real-world relationships in a relatable way. The show masterfully wove real-life situations into its storytelling, often embedding subliminal messages that went unnoticed by younger audiences at the time. These subtle lessons added layers of meaning, allowing viewers to connect with the characters' challenges and growth on both a personal and social level. Looking back, it's clear that Hey Arnold! was more than just a cartoon; it was a thoughtful exploration of childhood and community.
Black Fist Series: The Realization
Proud
24 x 36
Acrylic, fabric and hair on canvas
Marielle Franco’s legacy continues to inspire activists and advocates around the world. As a Brazilian politician, feminist, and human rights advocate, she embodied courage and resilience in the fight against systemic oppression. Born and raised in one of Rio de Janeiro’s poorest neighborhoods, Marielle's identity as a gay black woman deeply informed her unwavering commitment to marginalized communities.
Before her election to Rio’s city council in 2016, Marielle gained recognition for her relentless activism, standing up against police brutality, discrimination, and social inequality. She used her voice to spotlight the struggles of Afro-Brazilians, LGBTQ+ individuals, women, and low-income residents of the favelas, pushing for policies that aimed to protect their rights and dignity.
Tragically, on March 14, 2018, Marielle and her driver, Anderson Pedro Gomes, were assassinated in Rio shortly after attending a meeting with young black activists. Her death sent shockwaves across Brazil and the world, galvanizing a global movement demanding justice and continued advocacy for the causes she championed.
Marielle Franco remains a symbol of fearless activism, reminding us of the importance of standing up against inequality and fighting for human rights regardless of the risks. Her life and work continue to inspire new generations to pursue justice, equity, and inclusion in their communities and beyond.
Graduation
24 x 30
Acrylic, fabric, string, and paper on canvas
“Tell Them We Are Rising” is a powerful 90-minute documentary by Stanley Nelson that explores the profound impact Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have had on American history. From the earliest efforts to educate enslaved and freed African Americans to the vibrant campuses existing today, the film reveals the resilience and determination behind these institutions.
Historically, the education of Black Americans was met with fierce resistance and fear. As noted by an unknown source, “the teaching of slaves to read and write has a tendency to excite dissatisfaction in their minds,” highlighting how literacy was seen as a threat to the status quo. This fear extended to the establishment of HBCUs themselves. The Mayor of New Haven, Connecticut, once condemned the founding of colleges educating Black people as “unwarrantable, dangerous, interference,” urging southern states to discourage such efforts.
Despite such opposition, HBCUs have been beacons of hope and advancement. They have nurtured leaders, scholars, and innovators who have significantly shaped not only Black communities but the nation as a whole. “Tell Them We Are Rising” provides an essential narrative that honors these institutions’ legacy and their ongoing role in the pursuit of equality and empowerment through education.
Heal or Kneel
30 x 40
Acrylic, fabric and hair on canvas
One player kneeling during the national anthem sparked a powerful conversation across America. Athletes, with their influential platforms, are not just entertainers—they are voices for justice and change. When a life is lost to police violence or the grip of white supremacy, it outranks any game or spectacle. The discomfort some feel is a reflection of deeper societal pain and resistance to confronting uncomfortable truths. Healing from the ingrained narratives of American society requires openness and the courage to challenge long-held beliefs. True progress demands sacrifice—whether it’s the comfort of silence or the prioritization of sports over human dignity. The question remains: are we ready to choose empathy and justice over complacency?
L' union fait la force(Unity makes Strength)
24 x 36
Acrylic and fabric on canvas
François-Dominique Toussaint Louverture, a pivotal figure in the Haitian Revolution, stands as a symbol of liberation and strategic leadership. Known also as Toussaint L'Ouverture or Toussaint Bréda, he played a crucial role in the emancipation of slaves in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, present-day Haiti.
When the massive slave revolt erupted in August 1791 in the northern province, Toussaint’s initial hesitation gave way to decisive action. After a brief period of uncertainty, he aided his former master’s escape, then aligned himself with the insurgent Black forces who were actively dismantling the plantation system through armed rebellion. Demonstrating remarkable leadership, Toussaint organized and trained his followers using guerrilla warfare techniques, transforming a fragmented uprising into a formidable military campaign.
By 1795, Toussaint Louverture had become a revered figure not only to the Black population but also to many Europeans and mulattoes. His efforts went beyond the battlefield; he helped restore economic stability in the colony and won recognition as a capable and pragmatic leader. Toussaint's negotiation secured a unique arrangement: Saint-Domingue was governed temporarily as a French protectorate by Black former slaves, marking a historic, albeit brief, chapter of self-governance and emancipation.
Toussaint Louverture’s legacy is one of courage, strategic acumen, and commitment to the cause of freedom, embodying the struggle and aspirations of oppressed peoples in the quest for justice and autonomy.
KOD
40 x 16
Acrylic and mixed media on canvas
Inspired by one of my best friends’ son who has autism, this reflection delves into the complex challenges faced by Black children in America. It contemplates the widespread administration of vaccinations, often met with mixed feelings and uncertainties surrounding health diagnoses that too frequently lack clarity. The mental deterioration observed in many Black youths underscores a systemic issue, one that intertwines with social, environmental, and medical factors.
The catalyst for this insight was J. Cole’s album K.O.D., where he powerfully articulates struggles related to addiction, mental health, and the pressures placed on young Black individuals. His lyrical exploration provides a verbal framework that echoes the lived realities of many, bringing to light the nuanced intersections of health, identity, and societal expectation.
This piece seeks to honor the resilience of Black children navigating these challenges, while urging a deeper conversation about the systemic changes needed to safeguard their physical and mental well-being. It is a call to acknowledge not just the medical but the cultural and psychological dimensions impacting their lives, advocating for empathy, informed care, and community support.
RIOT
48 x 36
Acrylic and mixed media on canvas
In 2020, the nation witnessed an unprecedented wave of public outcry following the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor. This piece serves to commemorate the grand jury decision in Breonna Taylor’s case, reflecting the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability in the face of systemic violence against Black and minority communities.
The imagery draws deeply from a history of protest, riots, and collective outrage—moments when communities have risen to demand recognition of Black lives and an end to police brutality. The word RIOT, prominently featured here, finds its origin in a powerful photograph by Algerina Perna capturing the 2015 Baltimore riots, which erupted after the death of Freddie Gray. This visual link serves as a solemn reminder that the pain of loss and the call for justice echo through time.
Central in the image is the figure of Greg Butler, the man in the gas mask. During the Baltimore unrest, Butler was arrested and faced severe charges—twenty-five years to life—for allegedly puncturing a fire hose. These local charges were eventually dropped, but he was later prosecuted on a federal level, exemplifying the harsh legal repercussions faced by activists and protest participants.
Through this powerful composition, the piece honors both the memory of Breonna Taylor and the collective resilience demonstrated during protests. It also calls attention to the ongoing fight against systemic injustice and the societal fractures that continue to demand urgent redress.
Greed/Capitali$m
24 x 30
Acrylic and mixed media on canvas
Cash indeed rules everything and everyone around us, shaping a system that thrives on greed, power, and control. The relentless pursuit of wealth and ownership over means of production has created an economy where profit is prioritized above human lives. This has blurred our moral compass, convincing us to accept a reality governed by a select few—a family or class of higher stature—who manipulate the structures of capitalism to maintain dominance.
Our nation’s foundation is inseparable from both capitalism and white supremacy, systems intertwined to enforce inequality and perpetuate exploitation. From the outset, we have been conditioned to fight, kill, deceive, steal, and sacrifice in the name of the almighty dollar. But few realize that this system was designed with deliberate intent. The so-called Founding Fathers and King George were not adversaries but collaborators in a larger scheme to subjugate the people. Their goal was to install a centralized government that forced citizens into a cycle of debt—a debt engineered to be insurmountable.
Consider this: in 1980, the national debt was under one trillion dollars, a figure that seems minuscule today. The problem lies in our monetary system logic itself. It’s controlled by a central bank that operates independently of the government, creating money in tandem with an equivalent amount of interest-bearing debt. This cycle means that no matter how hard we try, paying off the debt is impossible because the money to pay interest doesn't exist concurrently in circulation—it’s a mathematical trap.
This fundamental flaw ensures perpetual indebtedness, draining resources and opportunities from the majority while enriching the few. The inevitable outcome is a deep and systemic depression, whether it erupts suddenly through economic collapse or slowly eats away at living standards through relentless inflation. Our survival depends on recognizing this reality and challenging the structures that sustain it before we become completely enslaved by this poisoned economic system.
In the NILE/In denial
40 x 16
Acrylic on canvas
Water, in the Black experience, flows as both a life-giving force and a somber witness to struggle and resistance. It carries the dual weight of survival and despair, embodying the complexity of Black existence throughout history. The story of the Igbo captives in 1803 is a profound testament to this duality—a poignant example of how water symbolizes both liberation and loss.
The rebellion aboard the York, where approximately 75 Igbo slaves seized control by drowning their captors, reveals a fierce determination to reclaim their agency even in the face of overwhelming oppression. Their subsequent march into the marshy waters of Dunbar Creek, led by their high chief, signifies a deliberate choice: death as an escape from the unyielding chains of slavery.
This act of mass suicide is a haunting reflection of the subconscious mind grappling with the unbearable reality of bondage, choosing the certainty of death and the unknown beyond over a life stripped of freedom and dignity. Water, here, is not just a physical element but a symbolic passage between worlds—between captivity and liberation, between suffering and peace.
In the broader context of Black life and history, water continues to be a space of memory and meaning—carrying stories of pain, resilience, and hope. It reminds us that beneath the surface of every struggle lies a deeper, often unspoken, current of strength and the profound human desire for freedom.
THE NAMEK
Acrylic and mixed media on canvas
16 x 40
The Namek, or Namekian, better known as Piccolo, is a fictional character from a popular TV anime series that has captivated audiences for decades. Watching the series as an adolescent and continuing into adulthood, Piccolo stood out as a character you could either like or dislike initially, but ultimately, you end up loving him. His journey from being a world-threatening villain to a fully realized hero is one of the most compelling arcs in the series.
Throughout the series, Piccolo often faced the majority of the threats first, showcasing his role as both a fierce warrior and a wise strategist. Beyond his combat abilities, he serves as a trainer and advisor to the main characters, particularly Goku’s son, helping to elevate their skills and resolve. Despite his serious demeanor, Piccolo also provides moments of comic relief, often through his interactions with Goku, which adds depth and balance to his character.
Piccolo’s evolution highlights themes of redemption, growth, and the complexity of good versus evil, making him an enduring and beloved figure in the anime world.