Written and compiled by Iman A. Jefferson

Sometimes you just know when you’re going to witness greatness. On March 18, visual artist Hebru Brantley unveiled his largest solo exhibition to date at Zhou B Art Center. In Afro-Futurism: Impossible View (through April 25), the Chicago-bred, Clark Atlanta University–educated artist illuminates the world of a mythical, goggle-wearing character named Flyboy who takes children—often the victims of socioeconomic injustices—and celebrates their undying spirit despite the oppressive forces of society. Already patronized by Diddy, LaLa Vasquez, Mos Def, Cuba Gooding Jr., and director Jerry Bruckheimer, Brantley will display more than 30 paintings, several mounted sculptures, and installations of painted television sets. “As my largest exhibit to date, it’s a big deal. It allows me to showcase my style of art on a bigger stage, which is rarely [seen] in Chicago,” he says. “It’s my true coming out.” zbcenter.org