About ME
“Brother Behind the Bristles”
Artist Statement
Arshaad’s conviction is to create mesmerizing public art and awe inspiring exhibitions with museum collectibles that emanate his ephemeral art journey from the blight of bondage and his insatiable plight to pursue the American dream to the brink of oblivion and beyond in hopes to educate, empower & inspire the next generation of artists & community leaders promoting compassion, self reflection & upward mobility!
Professional Biography
Arshaad Norwood, known as "The Brother Behind the Bristles," stands as a dynamic force in Atlanta’s contemporary art world. He has built an inspiring career as a visual artist with over two decades of experience. His contributions to both the art community and the education sector, combined with his influence across various platforms and events, make him a notable figure in the Atlanta area and beyond.
Born in Philadelphia and raised in Christian City Foster Care, Arshaad earned a Bachelor of Art from Lagrange College in 2005, his career quickly took off. He gained recognition for his painting "The Triumph," which earned him first place at the Arts Clayton Gallery in 2009, solidifying his status as an emerging artist in the Atlanta art scene.
Transitioning into education, Arshaad brought his passion for the arts into the classroom which led him to become an art educator at Jonesboro High School. Arshaad pursued and obtained his Master’s degree in Secondary Education, positioning himself as both an academic and creative leader. His desire to nurture emerging talent extended beyond the classroom, as he simultaneously founded his own artistic venture, ArtbyArshaad LLC, where he continued to produce his own work while supporting others in the community.
Arshaad's art career continued to rise with his commission as the Featured Artist for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s Centennial Art Collection, prestigious honor that brought his work to an international audience. His contributions have been celebrated by Mayor Vince Williams, Mayor Andre Dickenson, and Humanitarian Bishop Sedgwick Daniels in addition to being featured in South Cobb Voice, Voyage ATL, ArtsATL, Atlanta News First, Atlanta Journal Constitution, and at the NBAF Ascend Horizon Awards.
Last year Arshaad won the highest bid for his Graceland painting at Christian City Community Champions Award, completed a 1000 sqft Mural for his former foster home at Graceland Thrift Store & was inducted into the 2025 Landmark Alumni Hall of Honors cementing his place as a pillar in both the artistic and local communities. Arshaad’s evolution from a passionate young artist to a distinguished visual artist and art educator is a testament to his dedication, skill, and versatility across various artistic platforms. e currently teaches Photography & Advanced Graphic Design at Westlake High School and his work is showcase on a new movie called “AI Me” and on Bar Rescue TV Show airing March 15, 2026 on Paramount TV!