JR

Work done in Rio de Janeiro


JR - EXTRAIT "WOMEN ARE HEROES", Kibera, Kenya
Uploaded by JR. - Arts and animation videos.

One of the most significant Art Activists out there right now, JR, is personally a huge favorite of mine. Not only does his work shine a spotlight on those whose voices are very rarely heard, it brings communities together to celebrate who they are and where they come from. There is a sense of pride and empowerment that he gives to every community he works within. Please check out his many other works at http://jr-art.net/ as well as the BBC news article and slide show at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8091890.stm

Wendy Plomp

Dutch Designer, Wendy Plomp, gives a second life to cardboard that is usually used for packaging and then just thrown away. And she turns discarded material into something beautiful, precious, and thought provoking. The idea of printing on cardboard boxes has a number of social implications as well; praying rugs improvised, temporary shelters made or even a stage for break dancing.

Nick Cave - Art in Motion

Nick Cave

Not to be confused with the Australian musician, Nick Cave was actually a professor of mine. I saw his exhibit at the Chicago Cultural Center in '06, and was completely blown away. The work was incredible. Cave's "Soundsuits" can stand alone as intricate sculptures but also can take life when worn by dancers in performances.

Phyllis Galembo

I find myself less attracted to photography than any other medium but this artist Phyllis Galembo's subjects are completely awe inspiring. He has traveled through Nigeria, Zambia, Haiti, Cuba and many other countries documenting the fantastical costumes used in traditional ceremonies. Check out his many exhibits on the link below:
http://www.galembo.com/exhibitions.htm

Nina Chanel Abney

Nina Chanel Abney has been featured in numerous blogs, The New York Times, and Essence Magazine. I find her work to be unexplainably attractive with it's bold colors and graphic style. Please take a look at the rest of her work at http://www.ninachanel.com/