About Gerard Pefung

Gerard Pefung is a New York–based visual artist and muralist with over fifteen years of experience in public art. His mixed-media practice draws on his Cameroonian roots and American upbringing to explore identity, heritage, and community connection through large-scale, collaborative works. He studied painting at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, and has received fellowships and awards in recognition of his public art practice, with murals spanning communities from Omaha to Brooklyn.

Key facts

• Birthplace: Cameroon, West Africa

• Mediums: Mixed media, acrylic, aerosol, found materials

• Education: Studied painting at School of the Art Institute of Chicago

• Themes: Heritage, urban life, social justice, and community empowerment

• Residence: Based in New York; formerly active in Chicago, Illinois and Omaha, Nebraska

Pefung’s practice is rooted in storytelling through color, texture, and motion. His technique often merges fine art with a flare of street art aesthetics, layering spray paint, brushwork, and repurposed objects. Influenced by hip-hop culture and his Cameroonian upbringing, he uses art as a medium for self-expression and community dialogue. His elephant-themed paintings symbolize resilience and unity, while his “Urbanique Ecology” series captures the interplay between people and urban

Community engagement

Beyond his studio work, Pefung is very passionate about passing down knowledge and has become an influential mentor in public art programs and youth outreach. He has collaborated with organizations such as Kent Bellows Studio & Center for Visual Arts, Joslyn Art Museum,  Brooklyn Library and local school districts to guide young artists toward creative expression and civic involvement. His murals frequently emphasize unity and social awareness.