Kalief Dinkins is a 26 year-old Visual Artist based in Chicago and inspiring Creatives everywhere.
Chicago Made; An Artist…
The south side of Chicago raised me and made me an Artist. Immersed in culture, fashion, sports, and fine art, my essence lies in bringing ideas to fruition. I merge art and culture, employing creativity, experimentation, and exceptional design to inspire and uplift those around me.. Being self-taught, I always challenge my creativity and that has took me from painting shoes to painting Murals around Chicago and everything in between.
My artwork is a representation of my personal journey as a 25-year-old black man in Chicago, chasing the dream of being an artist that I didn't know existed. Through my art, I aim to give voice not only to myself but also to others who share similar journeys and aspire to pursue paths beyond the conventional options society presents. My work reflects both personal growth and its connection to the world, symbolizing progression within this journey.
Dreams aren't achieved overnight, and flowers don't bloom overnight. My work serves as a personal reminder to allow myself the space and time to grow, as we all should. Art has placed me in unimaginable positions, from collaborating with the Chicago Bulls to being featured by the Smithsonian. My work represents the concept of possibility, not just for myself but for everyone. Don't allow others to dictate what you can achieve; the world is your canvas.
B.S. Advertising and Business Management from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Artwork in +120 cities, +38 states, and 4 countries.
kanvas@kaliefskanvas.com
NEWS + INTERVIEWS
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COLLABORATIONS
Columbia Records
Universal Music Group
Kidd Kenn
Tyler Ulis
Ravyn Lenae
G Herbo
Dlow
The Smithsonian
Chicago Bulls
CIMBY
Burst Into Books
Recycled Modern
Cole Bennett
Isiah Washington
Queen Key
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
TEDx TALK
ConTextos - NFP
Afriware Book Store,
You Matter Studios - NFP,
The Woodlawn
Teyana Taylor
Leo High School
FunkyTown Brewery
Reebok