Born, raised, educated, and graduated from Chicago’s South Side, author and artist Bednago Harper developed a spark of interest in the creative arts during his elementary years. His flicker of interest erupted into a raging fire somewhere around the time he reached high school, and the fire has burned throughout the years, leaving in its wake a definitive creative output distinctly reflective of this man’s artistic legacy. 

Through Bednago’s brush, you will find real surrealism artwork that pays deserving respect to Classic Rock, Country, Jazz, and Old School R&B artists past and present. Portraits are his speciality. 

Bednago has published several books. All of his writings are drawn from true-life experiences, which he hopes will be utilized as identifiable vessels of learning and growth to readers on all levels, and all walks of life. Above all, he hopes his books are interpreted as reflections of the Black Experience in Urban America as opposed to the traditional urban novel.

"The inspiration for my artwork mainly comes from my love of music and people of the past, the honest and actual hard work from creating something from nothing, taking on an idea and building upon it from scratch, nothing computer generated or prefabricated, but actually created from heart, motivation and the human spirit.

One thing I hope viewers of my work will notice is that I have a love and deep respect of and for the ways and traditions of the past, especially the music and prominent people in history.

My music is a must have when I’m painting. My ideal soundtrack for a long day of painting would include music by Elton John, Prince, Led Zeppelin, Al Green, Rick James, Stevie Wonder, Queen, Fleetwood Mac, and the Emeritus cd by Scarface.

One nugget of wisdom I’d give to my younger self that nobody ever told him would be to never doubt or second guess your first mind. Ever.

My long term vision/goal for my creative practice is to leave behind a legacy to hopefully inspire and motivate at risk young people to make the right decisions in life, and have the courage to go against the grant despite what may be going on around them in their environment."