lemi ghariokwu: king of afro pop art

What happens when African culture and Pop art mingle and explode in the non-traditional art scene? You get Afro Pop Art! Dubbed the King of Afro Pop Art, Lemi Ghariokwu has created numerous album covers for the likes of Bob Marley, Lucky Dube, Miriam Makeba and most notably, the legendary Nigerian musician, Fela Kuti. Commanding the eye’s attention, the vibrant colors, social commentary, and figurative characters dance with the messages of equality, freedom from social dogma in mind; making sure to compliment the energy of each album compilation.

By Tip Jordan, AFROPUNK Contributor *
Pop Art has birthed a sub-culture that’s been getting the notice it deserves. When you thought it couldn’t get any bigger, reach more people and become even brighter, the enchantment of seeking the meaning in each piece forces you to find your way through the maze, causing you to think for yourself.

“I’m a pan-Africanist, so I’m interested in any progress that is relevant for the so-called Blackman., as well as celebrating our positive attributes. This explains why many of the pieces focus on two black heroes who have caught the attention of the world in arguably unprecedented ways.” – Lemi Ghariokwu

The explosive use of imagery explains why Lemi would be as great as he is creating album covers. Music in itself gives off different vibes and when the artists’ voice reaches the masses in the ways Bob Marley and Fela Kuti has, the art created must attempt to mimic the music’s effect.

For more of Lemi Ghariokwu’s artwork, visit http://lemighariokwu.wordpress.com.

* Tip Jordan’s blog: www.beingtip.com