Donda 2
Inspired by the grandiose set pieces across his latest Donda and Donda 2 rollout performances, Júnko Abe paints a portrait of Kanye West accompanied by the backdrop of his last live show. Capturing the deep, dynamic hues of blues and purples that set the stage along with the now iconic church and the water that flooded at the feet of it's performers.
From Paradise
To honor the legacy he left behind and the movement that he stood for, Júnko paints Tupac Shakur in a soft, noble light, contrary to the many images of the violent “thug” that many in media portrayed him to be. Rest In Paradise.
G.o.o.d. Music, Good Morning
In commemoration of his massive influence over not only music, but also fashion and culture as a whole, Júnko paints Kanye West exactly where he sees himself, in the limelight. Accompanied by an atmospheric backdrop of bold colors and characters inspired by the cover art of his 'Graduation' album, designed by Takashi Murakami.
Long Live A$AP
My original acrylic portrait painting of A$AP Rocky, featuring a Louis Vuitton x Supreme Monogram for the backdrop. To symbolize the unique creative paths that A$AP has taken in both music and fashion to carve out his place within the industry.
The Monogram
In acknowledgement of the consistency and the level of quality that he has managed to keep within his numerous projects over the past years, Júnko illustrates Kendrick Lamar in a noble, prestigious light, with a background pattern inspired by the monogram of the Italian luxury brand, Louis Vuitton, to match the level of craftsmanship that can be found in his music.
Black Opulence
Celebrating the many accolades and achievements that Jay-Z has amassed within both business and music, while also giving credit to his ability to sustain his status and stay current in the ever-changing hip hop scene, Júnko illustrates Jay-Z in a boastful, yet sophisticated, luxurious light for her latest piece. She surrounds him in an elegant black and gold background to capture the essence of the message of black excellence, entrepreneurship and spreading wealth back within one's community that Jay-Z has upheld through his music and his actions outside of the studio.
Diamond in the Rough
In support of her perseverance in the face of adversity and in an effort to show that beauty and inspiration can be found everywhere in life, no matter the situation or environment you’re in, Júnko paints Rihanna adorned with an abundance of shimmering diamonds and lavish jewelry while placed in a rough, gritty setting inspired by the ‘Mad Max’ movies for contrast. Out of the concrete, a rose.
A Celebration
In celebration of him pushing conscious rap to the forefront the mainstream music scene, as well as the attention and support he’s given towards the injustices occurring within his community and nationwide, Júnko paints Kendrick Lamar in a valiant, honorable light. With a bright red backdrop to portray his resilience and hunger, contrasted with shimmering golden damask and floral to represent the many accolades and the level of prestige that drive has earned him. A good kid from a mad city.