Hebru Brantley earned a B.A. in Film from Clark Atlanta University, and has a background in Design and Media Illustration. He began tagging graffiti on the street in the 1990s. His mixed-media paintings and sculpture reflect the street's energy and aesthetic, embodying contemporary urban culture. Using a distinct narrative and pop-art icons, Brantley's work challenges the traditional view of the hero, drawing inspiration from Keith Haring, African American History, Hip-Hop, anime and manga. The artist is also influenced by the 1960 s-70s COBRA (The Commune of Bad Relevant Artists) in the South Side of Chicago, seeking to explore what was the "Black aesthetic" creed.