Business Instead of Game

This is a print reproduction of my original coloured pencil drawing of 90's rap legend The Notorious BIG. From the iconic image of Biggie in a Coogi sweater the artwork displays a completely remastered vision of the original pixelated and blurred reference photograph.

A highly technical process was undertaken in order to achieve a portrait that is far more realistic and also intricately detailed. In order to achieve this an extensive research practice was undertaken by myself in order to create what i had previously been told was impossible in the world of art; that to create a quality portrait you must absolutely have a high resolution reference photograph. I studied and examined video footage of Biggie Smalls, and also multiple photographic references of both the rapper himself and the Coogi sweater, 90's dollar bills and Versace shades.

I also enhanced the reflection of the money in the shades in order to replace any feeling lost through my not having eyes to work with in a portrait. The image was flipped in order in order to create a new twist and also rule out skepticism around me simply tracing a poster, the custom size of the portrait supports this.

The result is a hyperrealistic and intricately detailed remastering of The Notorious BIG, that fosters a crystal-clearer rememberance of his persona and pays homage to Hiphop culture, all drawn entirely freehand.