Domonique Brown Is Redefining Representation in Every Bold Brushstroke
For Domonique Brown, art has always been a calling, even when the world made her feel like it wasn’t. As a child, her earliest masterpiece—a simple drawing on a paper plate—was celebrated by her preschool teacher. But growing up, the lack of Black art in mainstream spaces dimmed her creative spark. “It made me feel like my work didn’t belong, and my passion faded,” she shares.
It wasn’t until the pandemic that Domonique rediscovered her love for art, creating pieces to adorn her own home. What began as a personal project quickly grew into something bigger. Sharing her work on Instagram connected her with people searching for art that mirrored their own stories, and soon, brands came calling—including IPSY (more on that below!). Today, Domonique’s vibrant, powerful portraits have graced everything from major campaigns to television screens. Her mission is clear: to create Black art that has a rightful place in the world.
The Art of Identity
Domonique’s style is instantly recognizable—a bold fusion of portraiture and contemporary urban aesthetics. Her pieces celebrate Black identity and culture through vivid colors, intricate patterns, and rich textures. Every detail is intentional, from the fabric-inspired designs woven into clothing and backgrounds to the expressive brushstrokes that convey pride, dignity, and individuality.
Her influences are as layered as her artwork. Inspired by her diverse upbringing in Pomona, California, Domonique’s creations reflect the rich tapestry of cultures she grew up surrounded by. Artists like Kehinde Wiley, Amy Sherald, and Bisa Butler have also shaped her vision, showing her that Black identity can be celebrated on the grandest stages.
Her design background also comes into play, allowing her to explore different styles. “I can go from colorful, energetic art influenced by pop culture to minimalist pieces that focus on emotional depth and connection,” she says. No matter the style, her work aims to inspire a sense of pride, belonging, and representation.
The Collaboration of a Lifetime
When IPSY approached Domonique to create artwork for the Icon Box by Gabrielle Union campaign, her reaction was equal parts disbelief and elation. “I didn’t believe it until I saw her in person—big opportunities like this always feel like a dream,” she says. Having been a fan of Gabrielle Union for over 20 years, the collaboration was surreal. “For my artwork to open that door and put me in a room with someone I’ve idolized for so long? Truly surreal! The best part? She told me the portrait looked just like her. As a portrait artist, that’s the ultimate compliment—that means you understood the assignment.”
The piece she created for the campaign is a love letter to Gabrielle Union herself. While the portrait appears simple at first glance, closer inspection reveals so much more. “I got a list of her faves—dogs, corn (from Nebraska, of course), basketball, and more,” says Domonique. “I could’ve gone wild and had her dunking a ball over a crowd of dogs, but I decided to keep it simple.”
The Ripple Effect
For Domonique, success is not just about the accolades, brand partnerships, or seeing her work in major campaigns—it’s about the impact her art has on others. “Representation goes beyond making a portrait look like the subject,” she says. “It’s about making people feel seen, valued, and empowered.”
She continues: “I want my legacy to be more than the art itself—it’s about the ripple effect. I hope my work changes perceptions, breaks barriers, and inspires future creatives to embrace their individuality, power, and dreams. I want my journey to show that a girl with no connections can achieve the ‘impossible’ and open doors for others through her art.”
Her journey is proof that art can do more than decorate walls—it can transform perspectives, celebrate culture, and open doors for those who’ve felt shut out. From her early days sketching on paper plates to her current role as a voice for representation in the art world, Domonique Brown’s legacy is clear: she’s creating not only art but opportunities—for herself, for her community, and for all who follow.