Keynote Speaker: Cey Adams
The Artist Who Designed Hip-Hop’s Visual Language

Join visual artist Cey Adams as he discusses his artistic career spanning over four decades, from teen graffiti artist in New York City to founding creative director at Def Jam Recordings. He co-founded The Drawing Board, the label’s in-house design firm, that “defined the visual culture of Hip-Hop” and created some of the most iconic album covers and logos including Run-DMC, Beastie Boys, LL Cool J, Public Enemy, The Notorious B.I.G., Jay-Z, and Mary J. Blige. Today Adams creates fine art, drawing inspiration from 1960s pop art, vintage sign painting, and comics. His work focuses on themes including pop culture, brand identity, and cultural and community issues.

As Cey shares insights from his creative journey, you’ll learn about:

• Creating your own blueprint by harnessing your passion, creativity, and drive
• The importance of relationships and community – from collaboration to inspiration
• Giving back — using art as activism to inspire and promote change through community engagement