Upendo Taylor combines fonts, verbiage, illustrations, apparel, abstract art and design to create what he calls “Graphic Poetry.” Upendo is a Watts, California native, artist, designer, and lover of life. His inspiration is drawn from the streets, sports, music, fashion, friends, political and social issues, pop culture, cartoon characters and his favorite food – the hamburger. Through hand drawn skills, computer design and a can of paint, Upendo has developed an original design aesthetic that has led to collaborations with a wide variety of brands and artists. In 2005 Upendo partnered with Ron Upperman, and together, two artists started the apparel brand, Leroy Jenkins, which has built a global audience.
The Artist Tree Koreatown is the permanent home to an original mural and a custom painting by Upendo.