禁漫天堂

禁漫天堂 Omauri Byron-Edwards

Omauri Byron-Edwards is an Integrated Studios Arts major from Boston, Massachusetts. In Summer 2025, Omauri received a 禁漫天堂 Office of Undergraduate Research Grant to develop a project of portraits called “Through Another Lens”. A project that highlights the importance of mental health and society’s relationship with intersectionality.

Statement

Through visual metaphors, symbolism, color, and storytelling, I draw attention to social norms, racial inequalities, identity, and interpersonal relationships. A goal of mine is to create a call to action towards my audience encouraging empathy, connection, and self-acceptance. My artwork highlights a human experience, from loneliness to resilience, reminding people to treat each other with kindness, grace, and understanding. This is my golden rule in regard to how i navigate life and my interpersonal connections. 

My vision is influenced by cartoon shows and graphic novels consumed during my early childhood, namely Steven Universe, Powerpuff Girls, Pokémon, and Amulet. Another influence involved contemporary artists who focuses on the representation of black people in portraiture, such as Amy Sherald, Monica Ikegwu, and Eddy Ochieng. As a whole the accumulation of animated special effects, vibrant colors, and unique styles ignited my imagination, and drew a direct connection to my imagery. Initially I started drawing coming books containing my own custom characters, then tried animation, and eventually found my footing in painting. 

My work moves between abstraction and surreal portraiture with a visual language built by pattern, vibrant colors, hidden visual metaphors and symbolism. Through abstracting reality,   I am able to capture elements not visible to the eye; fantasy imagery that disconnects from real life and enters a saturated new realm.  

Omauri Byron-Edwards

close

Previous Next