Grambling’s Art Department will exhibit Fahamu Pecou’s work until March 4. Pecou brings raw stereotypes in art form.
He uses images to make his audience not only aware of social issues but to also confront them.
“Less is more,” Pecou repeatedly states.
This 30-something, African-American male’s work speaks before he enters the room.
Nothing about him screams artist, short of his asymmetrical haircut.
Images of his alter ego in provocative poses, are sometimes accompanied by an attractive female wearing a “Fahamu Pecou Is The Shit” T-shirt.
Similar to the artist, the collection is not flashy or outspoken. Just real.
Pecou’s collection titled “All Falls Down” portrays the sagging pants phenomenon.
The paintings do not preach to the viewer, instead Pecou uses his work as a mirror.
He exaggerates the look and stigmas attached to it.
“Black men are complex,” says Pecou.
Young black men are continually presented images of themselves negatively.
This narrows their career choices to either rappers or athletes.
Pecou’s focuses on when self-preservation becomes self-destruction.
He addresses the “ideal black male” facades that cause some Black men to rot.
Pecou is also conscious of the stereotypes attached to relationships African-American men and women.
The women in his paintings take a stance and stray from the sidekick video vixen idea.
They are attractive and confident women with respect for their animated counterpart.
Pecou’s paintings are authentic and present fresh ideas for women.
Black men and women are immune to the idea of Black male “pimps” and seem to be shocked with images stating otherwise.
Pecou uses techniques in his paintings that help preserve his idea.
He subtly paints quotes from popular culture.
The viewer cannot help but nod his/her head with a smile after reading quotes such as “If you see police Warn-a-Brother’ and “King Kong ain’t got shit on me.”
Pecou is pleased with the feedback he receives.
His work is not biased or directed to a particular age group.
The majority of his paintings are bought by middle-aged White couples, who see the truth in his work, he says.
Pecou is not out protesting or making public speeches.
He is not the cocky hip-hop head sometimes portrayed in his work.
He doesn’t walk around with an entourage or body guards. Although he jokes that it’s a good look.
He is making change with a paint brush. Before he paints he prays.
He asks God to use him through his work.
His prayers have been heard.