Idris Habib

Bio:
Idris Habib (Sir Idris) is a self-taught Ghanaian-American artist whose work fuses cultural heritage, bold contemporary expression, and experimental mixed media. Born in Accra and raised in the Bronx, he draws inspiration from global travel, music, and the socio-political dimensions of human experience. Known for vivid colors, textured layers, and repurposed materials, Idris creates pieces that challenge ideas, celebrate identity, and inspire dialogue


Artist Statement;
Music is at the core of my artistic practice. Inspired by legends such as Sun Ra, Jimi Hendrix, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Nina Simone, I translate rhythm, emotion, and spirit into visual form. Sheet music, instruments, and symbolic motifs often appear in my work, reflecting my belief that creativity feeds on creativity and that art can inspire the same spark it was born from.
My paintings explore what it means to be human beyond labels and divisions. I celebrate Black beauty in all its shades and forms, using bold colors, layered textures, and black paint as a signature element. Color choices carry meaning: white and blue suggest purity and safety, while black reveals hidden truths.
I work with unconventional materials such as fabrics, papers, and found ...

Group shows
2022
Art from an Experience Based Identity II, The Contemporary Art Modern Project
Traits to remember: the aesthetics & politics of black portraits, 193 Gallery
Intersecting Identities, ARUSHI Gallery
2021
Face to Face, 193 Gallery
Christopher Moller Gallery showcase at Investec Cape Town Art Fair, Christopher Moller Gallery
2021
Inner Bloom, The Contemporary Art Modern Project
2020
Art from an Experience Based Identity, The Contemporary Art Modern Project
Survivors, ROCKET SCIENCE
Survivors, Rocket Science gallery, 170 East 2nd street, New York, NY 10009


Fair booths
2022
The Contemporary Art Modern Project at VOLTA NY, The Contemporary Art Modern Project
Group show
2022 Traits to remember: the aesthetics & politics of black portraits, 193 Gallery
2022 Art from an Experience Based Identity II, The Contemporary Art Modern Project
2021 Face to Face, 193 Gallery Paris, France
2020 “Kangs” Band Of Vices, LA, California
2014 Rush Arts Gallery, Bombay Sapphire New York Finalists exhibition
2014 Dumbo Art Festival, Brooklyn, NY
2014 Grove Alley, Brooklyn, NY
2013 Poon' Pop-Up, Open House Lounge, NY, NY
2013 RestART ART Restore Life Fundraiser NY, NY
2012 Pray For Japan, Con Artist NYC, NY, NY
2012 The Jim...