Top Ten Favorite Artists of the Moment
A list of groundbreaking, world-changing, and impact-making artists you need to check out today.
Here’s the cool thing about art: no matter the style, it has the potential to inspire a movement. It’s why the Black Lives Matter murals painted on streets across the world were so impactful. And why Billie Eilish wearing Oscar De La Renta to the Met Gala was a major power move! Every day, artists use their voices to raise awareness and enact change.
The social impact of artists has never been more crucial than right now! We believe that creative communities are the catalyst for the change we seek to create. With art, culture is created, truths are told, and dark times are illuminated. We want YOU to feel inspired by the artists around you, so we’ve put together a list of ten amazing artists who are at the top of their game creatively, but also making social impact in their communities.
1) Autumn Rowe
IG:@autumnrowe
A singer/songwriter/producer/DJ from New York, Autumn Rowe has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Dua Lipa, Ava Max, Nick Jonas, and Becky G. Autumn has been doing her part to support artists during the pandemic. She’s serving as a board member for Songwriters of North America and co-director of Songwriter Fund, one of only two funds that have served to financially support songwriters during the pandemic.
2) Sky Brown
IG:@skybrown
If anyone deserves to brag about their creative expression, it’s Sky Brown! In 2018, she became the world's youngest professional skateboarder, going on to sign deals with Nike, become a published author, earn medals at the X Games, and compete in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics! Sky serves as an inspiration to young people all across the world with her positive demeanor, optimistic outlook, and fearlessness to try almost anything.
3) Abigail DeVille
Abigail is a New York City artist who explores her creativity through large sculptures and installations. Most of the materials she uses come from the neighborhoods surrounding her exhibition venues (one man’s trash is another artist's material…!), and her art often tells the story of lost histories--with a focus on racial injustice and gentrification. Abigail installed a public art installation in NYC’s Madison Square Park, which reflected the tough times brought on by the pandemic, protests, and political turmoil in 2020.
4) Dre Brown
Self-taught makeup artist Dre Brown has found a passion for uplifting the voices and ideas of women. Working as an educator for the DoveⓇ Self-Esteem Project, Dre helped create the “My Hair, My CROWN” workshop to support hair confidence within Black and Brown young people with natural textured hair. She also serves as co-creator of the Ultimate Empowerment Workbook--a collection of engaging exercises, stories, and games to inspire the hearts & minds of women. She has also worked with entertainment clients like Jason Derulo and Olympic Gold Medalist Gabby Douglas.
5) Yurby Music
IG:@yurbymusic
Yurby is a Dominican-American singer/songwriter known for her ability to effortlessly fuse together the sounds of rhythm and blues, rock, and R&B. With her 2019 single ‘Hands Up,’ she took an unfiltered look at the hurt felt by many due to racial injustice and police brutality in America. Yurby is also the founder of Bronx Noise--a space for women and members of the LGBTQ+ community to explore their musical talents!
6) Max Bennett Kelly
A native of Seattle, Washington, Max Bennett Kelly struck it big (as they say in the industry!), when his song “Happy, Healthy, Well-Adjusted” went viral on TikTok. Kelly also serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians, as he self-produced his entire single. He even shot, directed and edited the music video on his own.
7) Bianca Marie Rivera
Bonks, formerly known as Bianca Marie Rivera, is a young illustrator residing in the Bay Area. Check out her portfolio and you’ll find a collection of art fueled by people-watching, books, music, and today’s culture. Much of her art has taken a unique (some may call it quirky) approach to the issues young people face today: COVID-19, mental health issues, environmental causes, and racial justice.
8) Tim B.
Any great city has its own quirks, but Tim B. is contributing to all the things that make Oakland, CA so cool. A multimedia artist best known for his vibrant aerosol murals, Tim B. elevates the black experience through his art in and around the city (even painting the sides of major businesses like Whole Foods)!
9) Edvin Thompson
IG:@theophilio Edvin Thompson serves as the mastermind behind the contemporary clothing brand Theophilio. The brand prides itself on the use of upcycled clothing and the dismissal of gender barriers on its garments. Creative expression is bright and bold through Edvin’s designs, as he utilizes bright caribbean colors--a nod to his birthplace--and patterns throughout!
10) Tyson Peterson
We’re adding a second skateboarder to the list! Tyson Peterson (who also happens to be a member of the Vans family!), is known for his creative style both on the board and off. Tyson attempts the biggest rails with a fearless and stylish approach--an inspiration for all of us!
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