Paul Lewin, a Jamaica-born and Miami-based artist, brings to life the vibrant and mystical world of Afrofuturism through his folkloric portraits. His work is a stunning fusion of African diasporic culture and futuristic imagination, where each painting is a window into a dreamlike state.
Lewin’s creative process is deeply rooted in meditation and dreams, echoing the ancient practices of his ancestors. The acrylic portraits are not just art; they are stories, encapsulating the artist’s personal journey and connection to his heritage. Through geometric motifs and organic details, Lewin’s art celebrates the rich tapestry of African folklore and its enduring legacy in the diaspora.
The figures in my work represent my ancestors; ancient ancestors, futuristic ancestors, inter-dimensional ancestors. They symbolize my connection to Africa, the Caribbean, and the diaspora. Rituals, folklore, music, and art have all been passed down from generation to generation through the ancient art of storytelling. My work tells the story of me. Each of my paintings is created in a process similar to dreaming. Meditation and dreams were very important tools in the creative process of my ancestors. I like to think of it as traveling inside to the place where my inspirations, emotions, genetic memory, and unconscious thoughts all collide.
Paul Lewin