Connecticut born visual artist Saleam Bey is on a mission. With a hard working blue collar approach to creating, Saleam's methodical style translates as spontaneous while carefully thought out. His work walks the delicate line between commercial and spiritual. In the illustrative traditions of Keith Haring, this painter uses bold black lines to brace in a myriad of vivid colors. Infusing social commentary, philosophical ideas, and a healthy dose of humor, Saleam Bey is a budding master at his craft.
We visited Saleam Bey's quaint Atlanta studio and were literally blown away by the complexity of ideas expressed in his work. Three rooms consisting of an office, creative studio space, and a makeshift display gallery could barely contain the eruption of creativity concealed inside the unassuming exterior. His subject matter ranges from light-hearted to intensely thought-provoking! Saleam bends traditional iconography into new forms like a new age blacksmith. The artist also has a second, more nuanced painting style expressed through large patternistic abstract paintings.
We got a chance to build with the brotha shortly before the end of last year. When asked what inspires his studio atmosphere, he responded: "I listen to alot of old school music Curtis Mayfield, Rick James, Bootsy Collins, The Stylistics and other a few other throwback artists mainly from the 60s a d 70s era for inspiration." Click the link to hear the rest of the interview. See more of the artist's work on IG @saleam108