In his latest series, “Culture & Commerce,” New York based artist Jules Arthur paints a unique picture of black African history throughout the diaspora. Arthur employs vintage-style ads, which highlight the work of black artisans all over the world.

Culture & Commerce are portraits based on fictitious advertisement envisaging the artist, crafts-person or entrepreneur who is in full possession of unencumbered creative expression and business enterprise. It is widely held that such unknown visionaries brought advancement and innovation to the world stage, though, in most cases, by way of appropriation.

“Culture & Commerce” is Arthur’s homage; an observance in honor of the nameless masters whose early contributions continue to shape the global aesthetic without recognition.

“Culture & Commerce” is currently on display at Gallery Josephine in Martha’s Vineyard from now until September 5, 2016.