FROM HIS HANDS TO MINE

When I was younger, my dad and I would always debate about music. Especially as the “new age” of rappers like Fetty Wap, Young Thug, and Rich Homie Quan started becoming more mainstream—he was definitely a hater.

But even through our debates, we always bonded over art. My dad taught me how to draw superheroes and faces. I loved being able to connect with him through something we both cared about deeply, and I became intrigued by the world of creating.

When I was around 11 years old, I remember asking him:

“Why didn’t you become an artist?”

“Well, that’s complicated…” he replied.

“I wanted to go to school. I even had an interview with the art school—but I left my portfolio in the car that morning. I figured I would just try again, but I never went back. And you know, we didn’t have cellphones like you guys do now, so it wasn’t that easy to just call.”

That moment stuck with me. Creating art suddenly felt personal, like it was part of my story. Not only to continue creating for my dad and my family, but also for people who feel like they have no one to turn to, no one to call when they need it. I realized that my dad was always an artist. Not only that but an artist who voice needs to be heard and seen. I wanted the world to see the potential and talent my community and culture brings. Thats what I have set out to do.

My name is Che’ Hanif Stokes. I am an artist from Baltimore, Maryland, based between New York and Maryland. I specialize in art direction, marketing, merchandise design, brand design, and digital photography.

I’ve had the privilege of doing work for notable artists such as YT, Kodak Black, and others featured in my portfolio. My work is embedded originality and perspective, reflecting what I see in my culture and community.