(Oil, Charcoal and Acrylic on Plywood 60 x 90cm)
(Framed and ready to hang, overall size 82 x 112cm)
 
This is a portrait of the Beeston based rapper known as 'The Kingdom Rapper’.
 
Benjamin was born in West Bridgford, but after moving around the city a few times, to places like Gedling and Basford, he moved into Beeston for a new start.
 
Benjamin has had a difficult past and credits becoming a Christian with changing his life’s direction. The ‘kingdom’ he raps about is the kingdom of God!
 
He uses his music to connect with people in Beeston by performing at local events, festivals and schools; as well as rehab centres, prisons, shops, cafes and street corners - anywhere where he can be among the people of Beeston, and beyond.
 
I love to paint hands and was really pleased with the pose here, with Benjamin holding his thumbs together, and his interesting tattoos.