Born and raised in California’s Bay Area, Aaron Carey never imagined he would become an artist. As a child Aaron dabbled in art and only considered it a hobby because his father told him art was a “starving profession”. Being reared by strict parents meant getting into trouble in the streets was not an option for him or his older brother. Instead Aaron and his brother studied martial arts for over 15 years, competing in national tournaments and performing demonstrations throughout California. He looked up to his older brother, who also enjoyed drawing, inspiring Aaron to draw pictures of anything he saw, from Disney characters to people in the local barber shop.

Following high school Aaron applied to UCLA’s art program but was turned down. He went onto UC Santa Barbara to study Black Studies. While attending the university he took one art class to only be told his work wasn’t art by his professor. To this day he refers to his artwork as his “creations” not limited by genre or style. From wood carvings, clay models, drawing and painting – Aaron’s “creations” are now earning him notoriety and respect from art enthusiasts and others who admire his talent, which is great for a young artist with no formal training. Not being accepted into art school may have been one of the best things to happen to Aaron, as he is able to constantly re-invent his style and nurture his own diverse, artistic craft.

Aaron describes his art as “Hip Hop with a different voice”. As a product of the 80s and 90s hip-hop generation, much of Aaron’s creations exude the characteristics of hip hop on canvas rather than being tagged on walls. On the other hand, some of his works have a completely different vibe to them that appeal to a more mature audience. Regardless of how people describe his style, Aaron’s art interests people of all ages and cultures. Aaron appreciates the diversity both in culture and in art. “Whether you’re black, brown, white or purple you often meet people different from yourself who share similar interests …I hope my creations produce the same type of results among the people who interact with them.” Now living in Southern California, Aaron continues to create and is currently working on a “How to” book for drawing urban cartoons as well as preparing to launch his Phatty B T-shirt line.

Urban Network has the honor of having Aaron design this year’s Entertainment-Marketing Summit Compilation CD.