Brian De Jesús (b. 1996, Caracas, Venezuela) is a London-based artist whose work delves into themes of migration, labor, and cultural identity. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant Tuki culture—a genre of electronic/raptor house music and dance that emerged in Caracas in the early 1990s—De Jesús integrates elements of this subculture into his art to explore the experiences of the Venezuelan diaspora and the marginalized communities within Venezuela.His practice is deeply rooted in his personal history, having spent the past decade in London working as a delivery driver to support his studies at the University of Westminster, where he graduated with a first-class degree in Fine Arts mixed media.
De Jesús's work is characterized by its expressive use of materials such as concrete, betting slips, Gesso, bricks, and dirt, reflecting the urban landscape of Caracas. These elements are often incorporated into his canvases, which are displayed on informal brick and stone structures, disrupting the traditional white cube gallery aesthetic. This approach situates his work within the context from which it was conceived, challenging viewers to engage with the socio-political narratives embedded in his art.
His solo exhibition at Hope 93 in London, titled La esperanza es lo último que se pierde, yo también tengo sueños ("Hope is the last thing you lose, I have dreams too"), showcased works that embody survival, resilience, and the fragile persistence of dreams amidst uncertainty. The exhibition received significant attention, with features in Vogue during Frieze Week and The Independent UK, highlighting De Jesús's ability to reclaim his story and make visible the struggles and resilience of the Venezuelan diaspora.
In addition to his exhibitions, De Jesús has been awarded several fellowships and residencies, including the Travers Smith CSR Art Programme (2023–24), Manos Creando at Gasworks (2023), and the Conditions Studio Programme at the Institute of Contemporary Arts (2023). These opportunities have allowed him to engage with diverse communities and further develop his practice, fostering meaningful conversations about materiality, labor, privilege, and luck.
Through his immersive installations and workshops, De Jesús continues to break barriers, fostering connections, and igniting wonder through the complexity of societal narratives, making his art a platform for meaningful dialogue and cultural exchange.