7GodXX is a well-known artist in the Wilmington area. His artwork is unique and instantly recognizable. He’s been commissioned to have his art shown at locations and has also participated in events where he does live painting as others perform. In addition to canvas work, he does art on clothing and other objects. Not only is his work beautiful and captivating, but it also comes with a message. The root of his art is helping to raise awareness about mental health. Learn more about this inspirational artist below.
Are you a Wilmington native?
Yes born & raised
How did you get started in art?
Back in 2014 while hanging with a group of my friends I was drugged & hospitalized. After my accident, I was diagnosed schizophrenic, bipolar. Being diagnosed with a mental illness, I didn’t know how to deal with my current reality, no one in my house knew about mental illness or how to deal with it. I kept having manic episodes & fighting with my family. From being homeless to living on the street, I had to find an outlet. One day I was introduced to the creative vision factory, & that place saved my life. I picked up the paintbrush & never turned back. Art was my therapy & healing safe space. I learned so much through my art It was a big release & got me closer to understanding God. Art then became a passion and now it’s my career
In addition to canvas work, you do fantastic clothing too. Have you always been interested in fashion and how did you decide to turn fabric into walking art?
I hate fashion. I’m in love with the style. Before art, I had my own clothing line called Llennef. Llennef was driven from the personal memory of my grandmother, April Fennell, who passed away on September 4, 1994, from HIV. I was also inspired by my mother; Shahida Fennell, a successfully accomplished poet, and author. So I started creating my own fashion when I was very young. It was then that Llennef was born. The name Llennef derived from my grandmother’s last name spelled backward to resemble Fennell. When I started doing art I just took what I learned & applied it to clothes & started doing wearable art
What type of feeling do you hope your artwork invokes in people when they see it?
When people see my art I want them to look within themselves and deeply Reflect & Question everything. I want my art to be healing to the world and not only spark & inspire people but provoke change in the world.
What is the biggest impact art has had on your life?
Art has changed my mindset and made me look at life from a different perspective. My whole view of the world is different because of art.
You’re also a mental health advocate. Why is bringing awareness about mental health important to you?
As a man of color, I think it really important for people in my community to get familiar with mental health and learn how to heal from trauma. Art is one of many ways you can heal.
How do you connect mental health awareness to your art?
Everything I do connect back to mental health because that was the seed that birthed my art career. However, specifically, I created a body of work towards mental health called “mood swings†which is dedicated to my story and champion wellness. It’s about not letting my mental health define me. I also do art therapy programming with youth.
I feel like I’ve seen you doing art all over the city. Where have you had your work shown?
All over the world
Besides art what are some other interests you have?
My biggest interests other than art are community building & teaching youth healing creativity.
If I speak to you 10yrs from now, where do you hope you are with your art and advocacy?
I’d like to see my art in big times museums and have community programs all over the world
What do you have coming up?
I’m working on a new body of work at the moment, also I’m currently curating a group exhibition at the Delaware Contemporary Museum that premiers Feb 4
How can people connect with you?
People can connect with me on Instagram @7godxx or Email: