Exploring Art and Social Issues with Kumasi J. Barnett: Transforming Comics into Thought-Provoking Reflections on Systemic Racism, Police Brutality, and Corporate Greed
Welcome aboard 'The Truth in This Art,' a podcast that celebrates the power of creativity, hosted by Rob Lee. Today, we have Kumasi J. Barnett, a Baltimore-based artist, who transforms comic book covers into thought-provoking reflections on systemic racism, police brutality, corporate greed, and political corruption. With an MFA from The Ohio State University, Barnett subverts classic good vs. evil narratives, infusing them with present-day social consciousness. He paints directly over old comic books, critiquing issues that plague society. His works have been showcased in various exhibitions in the US and abroad, including at renowned museums and galleries. Featured in prominent art publications, Barnett's unique blend of comics, painting, and art history creates impactful and powerful art.
As we explore:
- Explore how Kumasi J. Barnett utilizes comic book covers to confront societal issues like systemic racism and police brutality.
- Delve into Barnett's early connection to comics and how it influenced his artistic journey.
- Discover how Barnett's art blends his passion for comics with his training as an abstract painter and love for art history.
- Uncover why Barnett believes in the storytelling power of comics for addressing significant social matters.
- Learn about Barnett's advocacy for greater diversity and representation in mainstream comics and its impact on the industry.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Kumasi ash he joins the podcast to discuss his unique approach to art. He alters actual comic book covers to address societal issues such as systemic racism, police brutality, corporate greed, and political corruption. Barnett explains that he learned to read through comics and has always had a deep connection to the medium. He describes his work as a way to tell real stories using fictional narratives, drawing inspiration from his own experiences growing up in Baltimore. Barnett also shares his thoughts on the comic book industry and the need for more diverse representation in mainstream comics.
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This program is supported (in part) by a grant from the Robert W. Deutsch Foundation.
If you have a story about art, culture, or community, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on 'The Truth In This Art' podcast.
Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart
Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.
Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.
About "The Truth In This Art"
If you have a story about art, culture, or community, share it with us at rob@thetruthinthisart.com for a chance to be featured on 'The Truth In This Art' podcast.
Follow The Truth In This Art on Twitter, Threads, IG, and Facebook @truthinthisart
Original music by Daniel Alexis Music with additional music from Chipzard.
Episode illustration by Alley Kid Art.
About "The Truth In This Art"
"The Truth In This Art," hosted by Rob Lee, is a podcast that explores the essence of creativity and its community impact, amplifying artists' voices and their profound stories.
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Creators and Guests
Host
Rob Lee
The Truth In This Art is an interview series featuring artists, entrepreneurs and tastemakers in & around Baltimore.
Guest
Kumasi J. Barnett
Baltimore-based artist, who transforms comic book covers into thought-provoking reflections on systemic racism, police brutality, corporate greed, and political corruption. With an MFA from The Ohio State University, Barnett subverts classic good vs. evil narratives, infusing them with present-day social consciousness.