Showing off some seriously precocious arts talent, Pharaoh is a 19 year old illustrator with a rapidly gathering following, an exciting exhibition of his work already on display in conjunction with innovative urban record label Punch Records, magazine work, and a hand in the Brits 2017 website. With a penchant for depicting hip-hop stars through cross hatching and the use of ‘promarkers’ and ‘fineliners’ (or felt tips in layman terms) he manages to create dynamic, fun and energetic work. Reflecting the unrefined yet lively energy of the increasingly stylish hip-hop and Grime scene, Pharaoh’s work captures popular culture at its finest – respectively fusing the gap between art and music. His work features portraits of FKA Twigs, Big Narstie, Tyler the Creator, Ice Cube and more. Pharaoh’s first exhibition will be taking place at The Gap in The Old Print Works – the ideal space for displaying fresh new talent. Fans of hip-hop and Grime should definitely check this out – for his artistic capability shouldn’t just be applauded here, but his nod towards our current generation cannot be ignored – especially considering that the younger generations’ likes and dislikes are so frequently overlooked. After all who knows better about young people’s lives and artistic expression than the youth themselves?

Tues 18th Jul – Sun 20th Aug at The Gap, 498 – 500 Moseley Rd, Birmingham B12 9AH. Free. www.punch-records.co.uk
Register for launch party tickets on Fri 21 Jul. Free here.

Tue 18 Jul - Sun 20 Aug
Words:
Charlotte Russell - Arts Editor
Published on:
Tue 1 Aug 2017