Feb
Culture: Fahama Pecou
Fahamu Pecou isn’t just a prolific painter. He does paint, but he also acts and makes music and video art. In his large acrylic paintings, Pecou depicts images of himself to question stereotypes of black masculinity in pop culture and fine art.
Growing up in South Carolina (he tragically lost both parents before he turned 5) and listening to rap music, Pecou’s sensibilities are steeped in Southern hip-hop, but extended beyond. In fact, “Trade” was a result of his travels to South Africa and witnessing the ubiquitous influence of hip-hop culture globally. ”I realized the potential power in the voice and exchange. It thrives on its symbiotic relationship to other cultures,” say Pecou, who counts David Hammons as his favorite artist. ”As a black male, I feel charged to create work that helps balance the misgivings of the exported media as well as to fill in the blanks for the culture-hungry outside of America.”
The 36-year-old’s work has been exhibited in Capetown, South Africa, and at the prestigious Art Basel in Switzerland; collectors of his work include artist and designer Takashi Murakami. His art sells for $2,500 to $18,000, depending on the size and medium. Next up, he will be exhibiting in Dallas, New York, and Paris.
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