Traditional Color Works

With color pencil, acrylic and watercolor I investigate depth, vibrancy, and storytelling in ways that graphite just can’t achieve. Each are mediums through which I can convey a distinct vibe in my work—color pencil for its sharpness and depth and texture, acrylic for its assertiveness and flexibility, and watercolor for its liquidity and feeling. These pieces are a reflection of my commitment to elevating culture, history, and individual narrative in rich layers of light. Whether shooting portraits, conceptualizing iconic moments, or fashioning original narratives, I work with traditional media to establish points of emotional connection, seamlessly combining technical expertise with sincere artistry. What they will get from us is work that transcends time and is vibrant, and designed to inspire, uplift, and connect across generations.

Illmatic

This colored pencil art work is a homage to one of the best hip-hop album ever. Illmatic is not a mere record—it is New York in the 1990s captured through the lens of Nas, a young street prep-school poet who viewed struggle, ambition and unrefined truth. Reimagining the legendary cover in traditional media allowed me to pay tribute to not only the artistry — music, dance, visual — but also to the enduring cultural impact it has had for over three decades. This piece is a tribute to the ageless Nas and the groundwork he created for so many artists.

Traditional Color Works - Corderro Stith

Nipsey Hussle

This was about 13 days of work, every second accompanied by his music. Listening to Nipsey’s whole discography, the layers of his narrative started to unravel — like how a guy who was tagged a gangster could go on to be a visionary, businessman and community leader. That journey mirrored in his lyrics gave me a deeper respect for the legacy he built. This work also represents a milestone for me artistically – it is the first time I have used graphite and colored pencils together in one piece, using the marriage of tradition and color to pay tribute to a life that was all about transformation and purpose.

Neighborhood heroes

This painting, which was created digitally, features a family in Halloween attire, but it’s more than about costumes and candy. It’s a portrait of community spirit. Their smiles are warm, their presence so positive and they stood out as shining examples of kindness, generosity and positivity throughout the year. They didn’t win the “Neighborhood Hero” crown for the way they looked on one night—it was because of how they consistently lifted up those around them to brighten and secure the block with their presence. In all respects, they are the quintessential heroes at home, and so should be the heroes at home.