ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: KALIEFS KANVAS

Written & created by: Amari H. Smith (@amarihsmith)

Kaysean is one of those unique artist in my eyes, he's had his hand in multiple art forms (fashion, drawing, and painting), and he's had success in all his creations.

The south side native has been drawing since as early as he can remember. He states, "I started with drawing what I saw which consisted of cartoons. Then I started drawing celebrities. I'm best at drawing portraits. I prefer the neutral black and white drawings I do not use color in my drawings. I've recently started painting within the last year and I've taught myself everything I know on my own. I started painting when I did my first pair of shoes in July of 2015. All of my current paintings that I show are me learning because I haven't been painting that long." It's many other things I can say about Kaysean but, I'd rather your form your own opinions  first. Below you can read the one on one interview, and get the inside scoop on Kaysean.


What things inspire or influence you to make art?

Music, fashion, and tumblr definitely inspire/influence my art. The vibes of music puts me in a state of mind that relaxes me and allows my creativity to flow. My art has a Tumblr feel to It I believe. It's chill with a deeper meaning, but relevant. I scroll down tumblr when I need inspiration. I do make art but I'm creating this path of "wearable art" it's my way of combining art with fashion. Delano Brown is the reason I chose to go down this path. He is my #1 biggest inspiration/influence. Also Chris Browns spray paint art.

How long have you been drawing? 

I've been drawing since as early as I can remember. I started with drawing what I saw which consisted of cartoons. Then I started drawing celebrities. I'm best at drawing portraits. I prefer the neutral black and white drawings I do not use color in my drawings. I've recently started painting within the last year and I've taught myself everything I know on my own. I started painting when I did my first pair of shoes in July of 2015. All of my current paintings that I show are me learning because I haven't been painting that long.

Short background on growing up, goals, enjoyments and hobbies outside of art?

I've always excelled in school. I was the teachers pet most likely due to my mother being a teacher. School was always 1st priority. Basketball is my second love. I played in high school. Now I play for fun; it relaxes me. I have a little sister who looks up to me and is probably the sole reason I try my best in everything I do In order to be the best role model I can be for her.

How would you describe your art to others?

I describe my art to others as outside the box. I try to be as different as possible while still being relevant. I make art for those who rather stand out from the crowd than be in the in crowd. I always say if you wear any of my art you're guaranteed to get stopped and asked about it and be the center of attention when they walk in a room.

What is your long-term vision for your creations?

My long term vision for KaliefsKanvas is to reinvent how the world approaches,experiences, and see art. KaliefsKanvas will bring art to life and make it as respected as music in today's society. KaliefsKanvas is a brand that is more than art. It's a lifestyle. It's a clothing brand. It's high end fashion. It's sneaker culture. It's designer.

Any notable pieces or accolades?

I have a couple of really popular pieces. One of my favorites with sentimental value is my mural of Barack Obama on Chicago's south side located on 40th and King Dr. Also my first shoe I've ever done which is the splatter painted high top Air Force One that broke the Internet and received attention from Chicago Rapper Lil Herb. Most recently I have been known for my "Hair Goals" 3 part series that consist of females with 3 select hair styles and skin complexions to reach all my beautiful females. There are more to come which will include other nationalities as well.

Things you would like people reading the bio to know?

KaliefsKanvas is my way of branding myself. I've created the brand by myself and I hand paint everything myself. I'm not the usual artist. I do not do one form of art. I paint everything. Literally everything. Everything is my Canvas. I just want the world to see my art. The years of the starving artist is over. I do this for every artist across the globe who do not have the proper stage to express themselves. I love all my supporters because genuine support is hard to come by in this world. I do this for everyone who believes in me as well as for myself.

CONTACT: kayseankalief@gmail.com
Twitter: @_Kaysean
Instagram: @Kaysean_