Kehinde Wiley, the celebrated artist behind Barack Obama’s official portrait, is confronting multiple accusations of sexual assault and abuse. The New York City-based artist, whose works are favored by celebrities and art enthusiasts alike, is firmly denying the allegations brought forward by several men, including Ghanaian artist Joseph Awuah-Darko and activist Derrick Ingram.
Initial Allegations
Joseph Awuah-Darko, a Ghanaian artist, publicly accused Wiley of assaulting him twice in 2021. In a recent Instagram post, Awuah-Darko detailed the alleged incidents but has not commented further. Wiley responded by publishing alleged records of Awuah-Darko’s messages professing admiration for Wiley and his work post the alleged assaults. Wiley noted that Awuah-Darko mentioned him frequently on social media and celebrated their friendship until making the accusations.
Derrick Ingram has also come forward, accusing Wiley of raping him on September 10, 2021. Ingram claimed that their four-month relationship involved episodes of extreme violence, including being punched and slapped. Wiley vehemently denied these accusations, sharing alleged text messages from Ingram that showed him expressing a desire to meet again and praising Wiley.
Since the initial claims, two additional men have accused Wiley of misconduct:
Nathaniel Lloyd Richards, a UK-based author and curator, alleged that Wiley inappropriately touched and groped him during a date in 2019. Wiley’s attorney, Jennifer Barrett, has denied these allegations.
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Terrell Armistead claimed that Wiley groped and raped him in the winter of 2010. Armistead’s allegations have been amplified by both Awuah-Darko and Ingram on their social media platforms. Wiley denies these accusations, stating he does not know Armistead and that the alleged events never took place.
Wiley’s Response
Wiley has described the accusations as part of a “reckless smear campaign,” accusing Awuah-Darko of orchestrating a concerted effort with Ingram to defame him. Wiley shared that he believes these claims are an attempt to destroy his reputation through false social media posts. His attorney, Barrett, further accused Awuah-Darko of manipulating other individuals into joining his campaign against Wiley.
The Artist’s Legacy and Future
Kehinde Wiley, whose artworks command high prices at auctions and who has been featured in various high-profile exhibitions and music videos, remains steadfast in his defense. He contends that the allegations are baseless and part of a larger effort to undermine his career. As the situation continues to unfold, the art community and public at large await further developments and responses from all parties involved.
Despite the gravity of the accusations, Wiley maintains his innocence and is determined to challenge the claims. The unfolding narrative highlights the complexities and potential repercussions of public allegations in the digital age, leaving the art world and observers keenly watching for the next developments.
