Detroit artist Paul Johnson is pushing back against negative stereotypes denigrating black people by twisting hateful images into beautiful works of art.

With his exhibit "Sambo Princess," Johnson embraces big lips and kinky hair, showing that there is no reason for black people to hate their features.

"Being raised African-American, just kind of growing up and being told this is how we are being seen with big pink lips, big ears, like animals–you know,” Johnson said during an interview with Michigan Radio. “I really wanted to take that concept and beautify it."

Johnson’s work reclaims the minstrel depictions from the 19th and 20th centuries often used to dehumanize black people by painting us as buffoons and clowns.

join us saturday evening for the opening of paul johnson aka @_ffty… this show will feature his #samboprincess narrative. these pieces point out the exaggeration and stereotypical depiction of african americans in media, specifically anime. combining kawaii and cartoon aspects, these figures are the evolution of the signature female that is the focus of most of his works. tomorrow april 7th from 7 – 10!

A post shared by G R E Y A R E A (@greyareadetroit) on Apr 6, 2018 at 1:47pm PDT

For about a month, the exhibit has been wowing art enthusiasts impressed by Johnson's use of color and his character Princess who is featured in every piece. Princess began as a doodle inspired by anime Johnson made in high school. Now, she has blossomed into a symbol larger than life.

pointing out the exaggeration and stereotypical depection of african americans in media, specifically anime, @_ffty and his #samboprincess narrative combine kawaii and cartoon aspects to his signature female figure that is the center of most of his works…

A post shared by G R E Y A R E A (@greyareadetroit) on Apr 14, 2018 at 12:57pm PDT

Photo: Paul Johnson

He said it is his job to push people out of their comfort zones and change the way people think. But, ultimately, he wants people to enjoy his work. "I just want people to have fun. And to think that they can do it themselves." He added that art does not have to be perfect, it just has to be empowering.

"Sambo Princess" will run through Sunday, May 6, at the Grey Area in Detroit.

Detroit artist Paul Johnson

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