Contemporary Painter Blake D. Lenoir, “B. Len,” paints in a style he calls
“Propaganda Contemporary.” Using elements of graffiti, B Len infuses his
work with abstract strokes, quotes, haikus, and pop culture references. His
goal? To convey a message, or capture an idea – sometimes an uncom-
fortable one - that reverberates and resonates with the viewer. His work is
rendered in acrylic, India ink, liquid latex and body paint. He embraces the
unpredictable nature of these mediums, that when combined with his
unique brush stroke, build textures that allows the works to speak for them-
selves, and reveal the messages hidden within his canvas.
B. Len embraces the cubist stylization of painting with its expression of ob-
long shapes and deformities. The cubist styling is his preferred niche be-
cause it allows him to leave his audience with a memorable impression that
demands conversation. Whether through harsh impressionistic works that
reflect our country’s current social state; or cubist expressions of inner tur-
moil caused by society; or more easily interpreted pieces that seek to en-
tertain, rather than provoke, a B Len work is a riot of texture, color and
most of all meaning.
B Len’s background in sociology and the social science inform his work,
and direct references to cultural and psychoanalytical themes of behavior
are often woven into his work. He embraced art as his passion while study-
ing at Western Illinois University where he majored in Art, with a focus on
drawing, and minored in Sociology. However, his artistic journey began at
the age of two years old, when he first found inspiration in a duck’s feather
that he sought to depict in exacting accuracy. He offers that now creating
comes to him as naturally as breathing, and is as familiar as his own hand-
writing.
He grew up in Chicago’s Auburn Gresham neighborhood where he excelled
as a student athlete despite being a reclusive child. Art allowed him an ex-
pressive and fun outlet that he believes is a democratizing force. B. Len is
equally comfortable in fine art galleries as he is doing live event paintings.
And the Cancerian can always be counted on to show up and show out
with a smile and a great backstory about his work.
