Artist Awol Erikzu’s latest exhibit at Harvard-Westlake Middle School not only highlights his artistic expertise but also moves students by engaging them with his evolving passion through thought-provoking pieces and hip-hop. From some of his earliest works to his most recent, Erikzu showcases his growth and his rise as a celebrated name in the art world through the different styles he has explored, including African art, assemblage, realism, conceptual art, and performance.
Erikzu’s background plays a critical role in shaping his work, with a primary focus on the cultural gap between African and Black American cultures. “The artist we picked exposes students to thought-provoking artwork and artists from diverse backgrounds, challenging assumptions and built with empathy,” said Joe Medina, explaining why he chose Erizku for the exhibit.
Students were also impacted by how his artwork makes them reflect on their own identities and assumptions due to its emotional depth and cultural relevance. “Awol’s artwork resonated with me, making me think more about the world and cultures around me,” said Lila Brockway ’28. “It wasn’t just beautiful to look at—it had layers of meaning that stayed with me even after I left the exhibit.”
Erikzu’s exhibit is a powerful reminder of how artwork can change our understanding of the world and evolve with personal and cultural experiences, leaving a lasting impact on all who attended.
