By Fiona Good-Sirota By Fiona Good-Sirota | September 25, 2024 | People, Lifestyle, Feature, Features, Featured,
Making it big in the street art scene is no easy feat. For artist and Bronzeville native Hebru Brantley, his meteoric rise to fame has included many firsts—from having his work collected by A-list celebrities like Jay-Z, Beyoncé and LeBron James, to bringing Afro-futurism, a narrative-driven concept that merges Black culture and art, to a mainstream audience.
The internationally acclaimed artist is now unveiling Midnight Blue, a permanent art installation at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago. The work is included in the center’s contemporary art program, THE COLLECTION: Where Art Meets Fashion, which features 24 permanent commissions and a rotating exhibition located throughout the common areas.
We chatted with Brantley about his Midnight Blue installation, his creative process and what fans can expect from him in 2025.
What are the main themes or artistic symbols present in the Midnight Blue installation, and how do they contribute to the overall guest experience?
The heart of Midnight Blue is inspired by the classic jazz tune “Round Midnight.” For this piece, jazz is my primary muse. Experiencing jazz music often mirrors the sensation of creating and viewing art—it’s about getting lost in the moment, swept up by the interplay of colors and shapes. In this piece, the colors themselves become a dreamscape, inviting viewers to interpret their own meaning. Ultimately, Midnight Blue aims to capture a mood, much like how a great jazz piece can transport its listener.
How did the location at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago influence how you approached the work?
The escalator space presented a unique challenge with its multiple dimensions. It required a composition that flowed cohesively across all three sides, so I had to consider how to create a piece that would speak to the viewer from every angle. These considerations shaped my approach to this distinctive location.
What did you find most rewarding about the process?
The aspect I appreciate most of this process is engaging in a creative dialogue with the other artists in the space. Fashion Outlets of Chicago takes an artistic approach to its curation and shopping experience. As a fellow creative, I value being part of this unique and celebrated community.
How do you hope this installation will resonate with viewers of different backgrounds or ages?
My aim was to create something that strikes an emotional chord with viewers, regardless of their background or age. Particularly with the interplay of linework and color, I wanted to craft an eye-catching and thoughtful piece that offers something new each time you approach it.
How does this installation fit into your overall body of work?
I believe it reads as both familiar and fresh to those who know my work.
What can we expect from you in 2025?
I’ve got a few exciting projects in the pipeline, though I can’t divulge much at this time. I can say you can expect a lot of creative output from me in both the fine art and film spaces.
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Photography by: Photos of "Midnight Blue" by Hebru Brantley at Fashion Outlets of Chicago courtesy of Kyle Flubacker; Hebru Brantley headshots courtesy of Bianca Garcia