A Blossom to the Unknown: A Brooklyn Walker Series (2016-2020)

In the series, A Blossom to the Unknown, artist Brooklyn Walker tells a story through his paintings about self-discovery, finding purpose in today’s world, and touches on the painful history behind racism in America. The artwork features a young boy as the subject matter to a much bigger conversation, the meaning of life. 

My intention for this series was to showcase what it feels like to be young and black, without a sense of belonging. The boy featured in the artwork is meant to be a reflection of the past. The overall concept of the series is about growth and the importance of the knowledge of black history. My message is that in our youth, education gives us a chance to blossom into who we become in adulthood. When I started this project in 2016, I had a clear vision of what I wanted the artwork to represent. I had no idea of how relevant the meaning would be in 2020. I believe in art that allows people to connect with a story and see themselves. As black creators, we must use our voice, our talents, and our platforms to speak up when necessary. Our oppression does not define who we are, but who we choose to be for our future will define our black excellence.”

- Brooklyn Walker

  

 BEHIND THE ART

Photographed by: Brooklyn Walker of series model, Carter Walker with "The Blossom"

THE GALLERY

"THE PRISONER" 2016, 18x24

Acrylic Paint, Charcoal, Graphite, India ink, Chalk, on 400 Series watercolor paper

“A Blossom to the Unknown”

Artist: Brooklyn Walker

 

"THE WOUNDED" 2016, 18x24

Acrylic Paint, Charcoal, Graphite, India ink, Chalk, on 400 Series watercolor paper

“A Blossom to the Unknown”

Artist: Brooklyn Walker

 

"THE BRAVE" 2016, 9x12
Acrylic Paint, Charcoal, Graphite, India ink, Chalk, on Hot-pressed watercolor paper
“A Blossom to the Unknown”
Artist: Brooklyn Walker

 

"THE INNOCENT" 2016, 9x12
Acrylic Paint, Charcoal, Graphite, India ink, Chalk, on Hot-pressed watercolor paper
“A Blossom to the Unknown”
Artist: Brooklyn Walker

 

"THE WITNESS" 2019, 11x14
Acrylic Paint, Charcoal, Graphite, India ink, Chalk, on Hot-pressed watercolor paper
“A Blossom to the Unknown”
Artist: Brooklyn Walker

 

"THE BLOSSOM" 2020, 16x20
Acrylic Paint, Charcoal, Graphite, India ink, Chalk, on Hot-pressed watercolor paper
“A Blossom to the Unknown”
Artist: Brooklyn Walker

 

 

Photographed by: Brooklyn Walker of series artwork, "The Innocent, The Brave, and The Witness"
Photographed by: Brooklyn Walker of series artwork, "The Blossom"
This series is a private collection of Brooklyn Walker.