Andre Chaney
Andre Chaney, born April 12, 1998, is an American painter, author, and illustrator based in Philadelphia. His work focuses on experimenting with fiction and folklore and using it as a narrative tool to speak on African American experiences and culture.
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Andre found himself fascinated with the dynamic and energetic style of portraiture by painter Ernie Barnes from the acclaimed television show Good Times, which led to his appreciation of art at an early age. In his adolescent years, he focused on developing a stylistic approach to his drawings, seeking guidance from local art organizations such as Moore College of Art and Design and Mural Arts Philadelphia.
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In 2016, Andre traveled from his hometown in Philadelphia to San Francisco, California, on a full scholarship to study at the California College of the Arts to further his artistic ability. During his time there, he developed a style that combined realism and impressionism in his original paintings and illustrations to create works of art inspired by books and graphic novels he loved as a child. In 2020, he combined his passion for art and reading, illustrated his first children's book, I Can Read So I Can Lead, and has illustrated eight books since then.
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He found an immense love for illustrating children's books because of the messages they can convey and the experience they create for both the artist and the reader! Chaney believes that the various mediums and artistic styles he can use to tell a compelling visual story while blending imaginative writing is perfect for bringing people together.
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In addition to prominent media outlets, such as an appearance on The Kelly Clarkson Show in 2022, where he discussed his works, readers can find physical copies of Andre's children's books in schools and libraries across Philadelphia and other states, such as Nevada, Georgia, and California. In 2023, Chaney partnered with KABOOM and worked alongside our young and elderly community members to write and illustrate short stories for three-story trails that will bring Philadelphia neighborhood memories to life. Also, in 2023, Chaney painted a dynamic and vibrant mural at the Logan Library that invites viewers on a visual journey as they enter the library.
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As Andre Chaney continues passionately creating throughout his community, his commitment to shift narratives and inspire positive change will continue to impact those around him.