milwaukee legends

The Milwaukee Legends series is dedicated to honoring individuals who’ve made significant cultural contributions to Milwaukee. It aims to recognize and celebrate their impact, offering them the flowers they deserve. A celebration of our city's cultural heritage through the captivating stories of its icons. From artists to entrepreneurs and community leaders, each piece delves into the trials, triumphs, and enduring legacies that shape Milwaukee's identity. Through storytelling and design, I’ve created the Milwaukee Legends series to honor those who have left an indelible mark on our community. Bringing together my love for design, photography, and storytelling.

MILWAUKEE LEGENDS INTERVIEW 002, CALVIN BELLAMY, WEDNESDAY.

Wednesday

‘Wednesday’ aka ‘Hump Day’, captures the essence of Calvin Bellamy, also known as CooCooCal, a prolific Milwaukee-raised rapper, who owned the early 2000s. The artwork delves into Calvin's struggles with mental health, depicted through chaotic and scattered elements that represent his tumultuous mind. Balanced within this chaos are touches of sincerity, color, and peace, symbolizing his genuine desire for betterment and deep care for others. The piece portrays Calvin as a resilient soldier of faith, navigating his path with uncertainty while carrying forward his strengths and wisdom. It illuminates the enduring spirit of a man who, despite his battles, continues to move forward with determination and hope, redefining the black-and-white judgments many place on the city's troubled legend.

Who Is Coo coo cal?

Calvin Bellamy, known as CooCooCal, is a Milwaukee-raised rapper famous for his 2001 hit "My Projects," which topped the Billboard Hot Rap Singles chart. His music reflects his life’s raw realities, including mental health struggles and personal challenges, making him a significant figure in the Midwest rap scene.

MILWAUKEE LEGENDS INTERVIEW 001, CHARLY PALMER, FOCUS.

BREAKDOWN

This artwork draws inspiration from the colors of the Wisconsin state flag while incorporating elements of the city and Charly Palmer's distinctive style. The background features a shredded cheese texture, a nod to Wisconsin's status as the dairy state, with paint splashes floating throughout to represent Palmer's creative process. In homage to his mother, Palmer incorporates flowers into his work, symbolizing remembrance and appreciation. The vintage gothic pattern surrounding the portrait reflects Wisconsin's traditional European architectural influence, while the bouquet of flowers symbolizes honoring and celebrating Palmer's contributions. Finally, the yellow circle over the subject's eye signifies unwavering focus and superior creative vision, even without glasses.

Who Is Charly Palmer?

Milwaukee artist Palmer, known for Olympic posters and social justice advocacy, teaches at Spelman College after earning honors for his trailblazing contributions to the art world.