Hebru Brantley was born and raised in Chicago. A product of the 80's, Brantley's early inspiration to create visual art derived from the cinematic Blaxploitation and science fiction depicted in the previous decade. His affinity for mythological comic book heroes, Japanimation, and graffiti has strongly influenced his work, and eventually, he began fusing elements of urban society with pop culture. From that, he developed his own unique style: Afro-Futurism.

Afro-futurism takes a multidisciplinary approach to visual art, layering youthful expression with human emotion, history, and the complexities and challenges of urban life. Brantley creates his work spontaneously and uses an array of mediums such as wood, found objects, spray paint, coffee and tea.

While refining his craft, he earned his BA in Film in Atlanta and went on to design and illustrate for media production and clothing companies. From there, he began to transition from graffiti to canvas, making a name for himself in the contemporary art scene of Atlanta. Chicago continues to be Brantley’s home base, but he enjoys the opportunity to work all over the world.

Vertical Gallery is proud to present a solo exhibition with Hebru Brantley. Memoirs of the Minimum Wage runs June 6 – 28, 2015, with an opening reception on Saturday, June 6, 6-10pm. In his visual survey of growing up in middle-class America, Brantley will show sketches, watercolors, paintings and sculptures that incite us to challenge the norm and question that on which we place value in society.

Contact Patrick at Vertical Gallery to receive the collector's preview.