Introducing the powerful visual language of Maurice James Jr. — a self-taught contemporary artist and graphic designer whose work challenges the boundaries of pop culture and repositions Blackness at the center of the American imagination. Born in Philadelphia and now based in Washington, DC, Maurice uses digital graphics to remix iconic moments, infusing them with symbolism rooted in Black love, Black power, and Black genius.

His pieces are not just art—they’re counter-narratives. Growing up in Wynnefield, West Philly, surrounded by comic books, baseball cards, and films that often excluded Black people from the hero’s journey, Maurice now fills that void with intention. His work asks: What if Black artistic brilliance was always recognized as divine? What if our folklore shaped the foundation of Americana? What if we were always the icon?

Maurice’s work is a portal into that luxury. A visual inheritance for the culture, by the culture, and beyond the limitations of Western gaze. Share this. Study this. Support this.

Written By Terrance Blowe @_Blowemagazine_ @Extrapulp_

Photo by Darren Agboh @dagboh