Dilla Says Go by Roger J. Carter is a portrait of legendary hip hop producer J. Dilla constructed from a vibrant mosaic of UNO cards. Carter’s signature assemblage technique transforms the familiar colors and symbols of the classic card game into a layered image that captures the rhythm, energy, and cultural legacy of one of music’s most influential figures.
By repurposing everyday materials tied to play and nostalgia, Roger J. Carter bridges music, memory, and pop culture. The fragmented arrangement of UNO cards forms a dynamic composition that mirrors the sampling and layering found in J. Dilla’s production style, turning a simple object into a powerful visual tribute to the artist’s enduring influence.
In the spring of 2020, South Side Chicago artist Roger J. Carter began forging a new body of work through relentless experimentation. What started as personal exploration soon evolved into a powerful visual language that resonated with audiences far beyond his immediate circle.
Carter is best known for his striking portraits of musicians, activists, and writers, meticulously constructed from toy soldiers. Once seen as simple playthings, the soldiers take on profound new meaning in his work, becoming symbols of struggle, resilience, and collective strength.
Since stepping into the world of three dimensional art, Carter has continued to expand his practice. His current explorations incorporate unexpected materials such as LEGO bricks, playing cards, computer keyboards, and broken records, each medium pushing his vision further and reimagining how everyday objects can tell stories of culture and identity.
"For me I've always been political in my art. I've always done revolutionary characters and rebels. So in that regard, I consider my art as a form of protest.My Art Is My Protest."
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