Celebrating Black Love, Beauty, and Power: Maurice James Jr. Unites Pop Culture & Art

Join Rob Lee on a quest to understand the heart and soul of art, as we explore 'The Truth in This Art' podcast with Maurice James Jr., a Washington, DC-based self-taught artist and graphic designer, who intertwines iconic American pop culture with powerful black images, promoting Black Love, Beauty, and Power. Inspired by his upbringing in the Wynnefield section of West Philadelphia and a lack of black representation in heroic roles in media, Maurice's work focuses on portraying the splendor and strength of Black People, seeking to integrate Black Culture with mainstream pop culture. Using digital graphics, he merges genres to create visually striking pieces that challenge cultural norms and celebrate Black artistic genius. Maurice's art strives to create a reality where Black Culture and Pop Culture are seamlessly intertwined, bridging the gap between different cultural references.

In this exclusive interview:

• Maurice James Jr. intertwines iconic American pop culture with black images, promoting black love, beauty, and power through his artwork.
• Focusing on black liberation, Maurice uses vibrant pop art colors to create visually striking pieces that convey a powerful message.
• Drawing from his 90s childhood and immersed in pop culture, comic books, and music, Maurice's art reflects his nostalgic influences.
• Maurice's aim is to create thought-provoking art that bridges cultural references, fostering meaningful connections.
• Motivated by the need for change, Maurice advocates for increased black representation in media through his creative expression.

This is a must-listen episode cause Maurice discusses his work that intertwines iconic American pop culture references with black images to promote black love, beauty, and power. He aims to create art that is authentic and thought-provoking, tricking people into thinking his pieces are real or fake. Maurice draws inspiration from his childhood and his parents' generation, combining elements of pop culture, music, and media to create visually striking pieces. He discusses the importance of black liberation in his work and the motivation to change the lack of representation in media. Maurice also talks about his process and how he stays motivated as a creative. He shares his love for stand-up comedy and how it influences his art. Maurice reflects on the changing landscape of the black arts community in DC and his experiences as an artist in the city.

Mentioned in the episode
Maurice's work on 11 Eleven Gallery
Maurice's website

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Host: Rob Lee
Music: Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard and TeTresSeis.
Production:

• Produced by Rob Lee & Daniel Alexis
• Edited by Daniel Alexis
• Show Notes courtesy of Rob Lee and Transistor

Photos:

• Rob Lee photos by Vicente Martin for The Truth In This Art and Contrarian Aquarian Media.
• Guest photos courtesy of the guest, unless otherwise noted.

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