artist bio

Kenya Lawton, who goes by the artist name Art1, is an airbrush artist with an inspiring passion for creating impactful murals and motivating young creatives. Born and raised in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, Art1 started his artistic journey at just 15. As a child he was inspired to be an airbrush artist by seeing his elder neighborhood friend Prince airbrushing realistic images onto t-shirts in his front yard. Eager to learn the skill and technique in the 10th grade, he saved up and purchased an airbrush gun and his uncle Richard bought him his first air compressor in ‘92. Quickly self-teaching himself and developing skills and techniques, his classmates would request name design murals painted on their loose-leaf binder notebooks in art class. His teacher Ms. Mimms noticed he was taking away attention from the class and said, “Why don’t you bring your airbrush to school and do a demonstration for the class.” So, he did, and his art teacher hired him, for his first professional job as an airbrush artist to paint a mural in her vestibule in Crown Heights Brooklyn. His second professional job was James Barber Shop store sign located in Bedford Stuyvesant at 146 Marcus Garvey Blvd., which can still be seen today.   

His early contribution to the community was just the beginning of a long and illustrious career in the arts.

With over 30 years of experience in airbrushing, Art1 has carved out a place for himself in the world of art, through hard work and exceptional talent. His impressive portfolio includes works that have been featured in award shows, music videos, movies, and books, gaining widespread recognition and admiration. Art1's work has attracted a global audience, and he has left his mark through his impressive mural work.

One of Art1's most notable contributions is the touching tribute mural dedicated to the late Jam Master Jay of Run-DMC.

Situated on 205th Street in Hollis, Queens, [ named RUN DMC  JMJ Way ] the mural has garnered global attention and has been featured in various media outlets, such as ESPN's 30 for 30, BET's The Murder Inc. Story, A&E's The First 48 with Macia Clark, Netflix's Hip Hop Evolution, WE TV's Growing up Hip Hop and many others. Art1's mural stands as a testament to his creativity, skill, and passion for the arts.