BIO
Brandon Valery Johnson Ifagbemiga Sangodayo, is a multifaceted Artist from Brooklyn, NY. He studied Communication Design with a focus on Illustration at Pratt Institute, where his journey into the Art and Capoeira began. Training with the Ile De Palmares Capoeira Angola Group, Brandon has seamlessly blended his love for art and martial arts into a transformative career.
With over 15 years of experience as a Teaching Artist, Brandon has been a driving force in underserved communities across Brooklyn as the Founder of The KA Arts. His contributions span from collaborating with African Centered Arts Organizations to impacting numerous public schools throughout the city. Transitioning from an Assistant Dean at a High School to a DYCD After School Director, Brandon's passion for education culminated in his current role as the Integrated Arts Specialist at Ember Charter School, where he serves as the Artistic Director.
His commitment to students extends beyond the classroom. Brandon has pioneered pathways for aspiring artists to access art-based high schools, embodying his dedication to nurturing young talents. Notably, he initiated the "Black Wall Street" event at Ember Charter, providing students with a platform to create their own businesses and vend their products in a marketplace, fostering entrepreneurship and creative expression.
Brandon's career is a testament to his unwavering belief in the power of art, education, and community engagement, as he continues to inspire and shape the next generation of artists and leaders.
CV
Brandon Valery Johnson
Born in 1981 in Brooklyn NY, USA
Resides and works in Brooklyn NY, USA
EDUCATION:
1995 - 1999: John Dewey HS, Brooklyn NY, USA.
2009 - 2013: Illustration, Pratt Institute, Brooklyn NY, USA.
FEATURES:
2022, Flatbush Misdemeanors: Season 2, Showtime, New York, NY, USA
EXHIBITIONS:
2000, H.E.O.P., (Group Exhibition) Pratt Institute, Brooklyn, NY, USA
2009, Bajan Broughtupsy, (Group Exhibition) Brooklyn, NY, USA
2018, Bajan Broughtupsy, (Live Painting & Group Exhibition) Brooklyn, NY, USA
2019, Bajan Broughtupsy, (Live Painting & Group Exhibition) Brooklyn, NY, USA
2020, Bajan Broughtupsy, (Live Painting & Group Exhibition) Brooklyn, NY, USA
INSTALLATIONS:
2000, Brooklyn College Performance, Ifetayo, Brooklyn, NY, USA
2019-23, Culture Fest, Ember Charter, Brooklyn, NY, US
2023, 256 Healing Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
2024, Asase Yaa, The Rhythms & Movements Festival, New York , NY, USA
ART DIRECTION:
2022-23, Culture Fest, Ember Charter, Brooklyn, NY, USA
2022-23, Our Black Wall Street, Ember Charter, Brooklyn, NY, USA
COMMUNITY WORKSHOPS:
2021, Public Allies, Capoeira Demo, Ivy League Preparatory School, Brooklyn, NY, USA
2022, Public Allies, Capoeira Demo, Brooklyn Independence Charter, Brooklyn, NY, USA
2023, BK Children’s Museum, Celebrate Kwanzaa Graffiti Workshop, Brooklyn, NY, USA