Adeshola Makinde: The artist behind our #BlackImagination creative
'We’ve collaborated with Chicago-based artist Adeshola Makinde for the visual identity and design of our Black History Month coverage. Here, he explains his take on #BlackImagination and the inspirations behind his creative interpretations.'
'I wanted to create pieces that highlighted Black Imagination and all that it encompasses. From advancement through civil rights to shaping culture, it’s something that’s embedded in our history.'
'The type on that piece, it not only was an aesthetic choice, but Imagination being pieced together in that manner also speaks to the many places (joy, sadness, grief, history, etc.) that black people tap into to manifest that Black Imagination.'
'The meaning behind that one is that despite Nina Simone's amazing talent and contributions to music, it didn't stop her from fighting for civil rights for Black people. That's precisely what the 'I have an orchestra in my mind' tidbit means on the piece. Not only is she the personification of Black Imagination in my eyes, but activism as well.'
'This speaks to personal histories and activism. Black women often seem to be left behind historically, and I wanted to touch on that.'
'The piece speaks to the power of identity. I believe it invokes a great deal of representation when someone who’s Black sees it.'
'To me this represents creativity, activism and Black culture as American culture. Primarily, because it’s focused on Spike Lee and the work he’s given the world speaks to those very notions.'
For more, visit @adesholamakinde