Hebru Brantley "Editions"

Vertical Gallery is proud to present “Editions,” our fourth solo exhibition spotlighting Chicago-born artist Hebru Brantley. Running from August 8–29, 2020 at Vertical’s 1016 N. Western Ave. location, “Editions” opens Saturday, August 8 from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW AND PURCHASE WORK FROM THE SHOW

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“Editions” features over 80 unique, hand-pulled screenprint variations depicting Brantley’s iconic characters Fly Boy, Lil Mama and Phibby, all done in a style reminiscent of Andy Warhol prints. The exhibition also sees the release of Brantley’s third portfolio box set, LILAC, following up on the sold-out portfolio sets Phibby (2018) and Smile (2019).  

Hebru Brantley creates narrative-driven work revolving around his conceptualized iconic characters, which are utilized to address complex ideas of nostalgia, the human psyche, power and hope. The color palettes, pop-art motifs and characters themselves create accessibility around Brantley’s layered and multifaceted beliefs.

Majorly influenced by the South Side of Chicago’s AfriCOBRA art movement of the 1960s and 70s, Brantley uses the lineage of mural and graffiti work as a frame to explore his inquiries. His work challenges the traditional view of the hero or protagonist, insisting on a contemporary and distinct narrative that shapes and impacts the viewer’s gaze.

Brantley earned a B.A. in Film from Clark Atlanta University, and has a background in design and media illustration. Recognized internationally, he has exhibited in Chicago, Hong Kong, London, San Francisco, Atlanta, Miami, Seattle, Los Angeles and New York City, including Art Basel Switzerland, Art Basel Miami, Scope NYC and Frieze London. Brantley also has been recognized in publications including the Chicago Tribune, Forbes, WWD, HypeBeast, Complex, the Chicago Sun-Times and the New York Post.

Solo exhibitions at Vertical Gallery:
June 2015      Memoirs of the Minimum Wage
February 2017    Eat Crap King
May 2018      Moniker Art Fair