I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Biz Markie, an iconic figure in the world of hip-hop and music. As a fan of hip-hop and classic radio shows like Lady B's Street Beat, I felt compelled to pay tribute to this legend through my art. In this blog post, I want to take you on a journey through the creation of my Biz Markie painting, sharing the process from its inception to completion.
The Inspiration: One of my fondest memories growing up was browsing through record stores, captivated by the mesmerizing album cover art. When I learned of Biz Markie's passing, the first image that flashed in my mind was the classic black and white album cover for the single "Nobody Beats the Biz." It felt like the perfect reference for my tribute painting, an homage to an artist who had touched the hearts of so many.
Preparing the Canvas: To set the stage for my painting, I chose to work on a used piece of wood panel. I began by priming the surface with a neutral, gray acrylic paint. This step is crucial because white is the highest key in painting, so neutralizing the surface allows me to build up to the highest degree of light gradually.
Bringing Biz Markie to Life: With my canvas prepared, I embarked on the journey of recreating Biz Markie's likeness. I chose to draw directly onto the board, a technique that gives me the freedom to design and adjust elements until I'm satisfied with the structure and proportions. This early stage is where the essence of the portrait takes shape.
Shaping the Portrait: As the structure and proportions took form, I began to block in the big shapes of the portrait. Layer by layer, I added smaller shapes, refining the details until the painting came to life. My style allows for a degree of interpretation, but I always strive to capture a flattering likeness that honors the subject.
The Beauty of Oil Painting: Creating an oil painting involves a myriad of techniques and processes, far beyond what I can cover in this post. However, I hope this glimpse into my process sheds some light on the art of oil painting and the heartfelt tribute to Biz Markie.
Real-Time Insight: To offer you a real-time perspective on my creative journey, I've included a series of photos documenting the various stages of the painting. These images provide a visual narrative of the transformation from a blank canvas to a vibrant portrait.
In Conclusion: Art has a unique way of preserving memories and paying homage to those who've left an indelible mark on our lives. Through my Biz Markie painting, I aimed to capture the essence of this legendary artist, celebrating his contribution to music and culture. Thank you for joining me on this artistic journey, and may Biz Markie's legacy continue to inspire us all.
Peace
Oronde Kairi 
