That Time I Painted Rihanna for Her Birthday (And Then She Matched Her Hair to It 😭💖)

Carribean Queen

Okay, let me tell you about one of the most unforgettable moments of my career as an artist — the time I got to paint a portrait of Rihanna. Yes, THE Rihanna. Queen of everything. And it was for her birthday. I’m still not over it.

It all started when I was commissioned by her brother (shoutout to amazing siblings!) to create a surprise birthday gift for her. I was already screaming. But THEN, the project got even more special — I teamed up with 1ofk Jeans to create the piece on a one-of-a-kind canvas shaped like their logo. You know I’m always down for something bold and creative — this was it.

I was sooo excited (and slightly terrified — I mean it’s Rihanna). Her beauty, talent, and style are beyond inspiring. She’s one of those people who’s a living, breathing muse. So I spent hours — days, really — combing through photos, interviews, videos… soaking up all the Rihanna energy I could find.

After narrowing it down, I knew exactly what I wanted to paint: Rihanna as a queen. I gave her a crown, because let’s be real — she is royalty. I decided to go full pink — all tones, all shades — because pink is powerful, feminine, fierce, and iconic, just like her. It felt soft but bold, dreamy but strong. Everything she embodies.

Before I shipped it off, I wrote her a special handwritten note on the back. A thank-you, a celebration, a little love letter from one artist to another. Then it was out of my hands.

A few days later… I died.

She showed up at a basketball game. New hair. And not just any new hair. It was the same color as the painting. I was literally on the floor. Like… did my painting inspire her look? Was it cosmic connection? Did the universe just wink at me?

Whatever it was, it felt magical.

LA Clippers Game 2014

To create something for someone I’ve admired for so long — and then to see her living in the energy of it — was beyond a dream come true. It reminded me of why I do this. Why I pour color, culture, and heart into every piece.

Rihanna, if you ever read this — thank you for being a queen and a muse. And thank you for wearing that pink like it was made for you. (Maybe it was 🩷👑)

—More portraits, more stories, more paint coming soon. Stay inspired, mi gente.