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"I don't think about art when I'm working. I try to

think about LIFE."

​

Jean-Michel Basquiat

BIO

    Entrepreneur and successful artist, Bariq Cobbs, has seemingly been holding a paintbrush in his hand as far back as he can remember. At a young age, his mother recognized his gift, enrolling him in art classes in Philadelphia. He perfected his craft by sketching any and everything that moved him, finding himself gravitating towards comic book silhouettes and Japanese animation. Later, mastering the art of graffiti, Cobbs began making hand-painted, African-inspired shirts, which quickly garnered recognition and praise from various celebrities. 

    After attending the University of Arts, where he majored in animation and film, Bariq left his artistic impression on apparel companies he co-founded: Tribe Vibe and Funky Roots, which were both popular urban brands in the late 80’s and early 90's. As co-founder and head designer of Miskeen Originals, his innate talent and strong sense of composition sparked trends that have been imitated throughout the market place to this day. 

    In 2004, Bariq co-founded Meezan ArtCouture, an upscale urban menswear brand. As Art Director, Bariq spearheaded the company’s creative concepts, which were translated into original designs and sold on the market. Artists like Jean Basquiat, Jacob Lawrence, and Andy Warhol were a part of the vast, inspirational, creative sources he utilized when creating new, artistically rich, one-of-a-kind pieces for Meezan. The company quickly became a lifestyle brand of choice, and was sold in various specialty and department stores nationwide. Celebrities, such as Usher and Busta Rhymes, proudly wore the brand in videos, magazines, and at industry events. 

    Most recently, Bariq painted movie sets for the Nick Cannon directed film School Dance, and has been featured as part of the The Unflinching Eye: Works of the Tiberino Family Circle, on display at the African American Museum in Philadelphia from September 27, 2013 to March 30, 2014. He has collaborated numerous times with the footwear company Project Canvas, contributing hand crafted sneaker designs for a Project Canvas Auction held at the Opera Gallery, and as a Project Canvas featured artist during Project NYC 2013, an annual fashion event showcasing menswear. 

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Offering fine painting, murals and illustration services for personal, commercial and print platforms. I am here to visually bring your ideas to life. Please email for inquiries and availability.

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