Renowned artist Kehinde Wiley is currently facing a storm of allegations related to sexual assault and abuse by multiple men. Among the accusers is Ghanaian artist Joseph Awuah-Darko, who claimed on Instagram that Wiley assaulted him twice in 2021. However, Wiley fought back by posting alleged records on Instagram showing messages from Awuah-Darko professing his admiration for the artist. In addition, Wiley pointed out that Awuah-Darko had mentioned him numerous times on Instagram before the alleged incidents. Despite this rebuttal, Awuah-Darko has remained silent on these claims.
Another accuser, activist Derrick Ingram, accused Wiley of rape, claiming that the artist assaulted him in September 2021. Ingram detailed a tumultuous relationship with Wiley that involved instances of violence and emotional manipulation. Wiley, on the other hand, has vehemently denied all accusations against him.
Celebrity Favor and Accusations
Kehinde Wiley’s artworks command high prices at auctions, and he boasts a legion of celebrity collectors, including Elton John, Spike Lee, Alicia Keys, and Venus Williams. His popularity in the art world is unquestionable, with notable appearances in music videos and a portfolio featuring portraits of various icons. Despite his illustrious career, Wiley now finds himself embroiled in what he describes as a “reckless smear campaign” orchestrated by his accusers.
Wiley has accused Awuah-Darko of colluding with Ingram to defame him, asserting that their motives remain unclear. The artist has shared alleged text messages from Ingram expressing admiration for him, raising questions about the authenticity of the accusations. Wiley has expressed concerns about the power of social media to tarnish reputations without regard for the truth, highlighting the dangers of trial by public opinion.
New Allegations and Legal Battles
Since the initial accusations, more individuals have come forward with claims against Kehinde Wiley. Author Nathaniel Lloyd Richards accused Wiley of inappropriate behavior during a date in 2019, while Terrell Armistead alleged a similar assault in 2010. Both accusers have garnered support from Awuah-Darko and Ingram, further escalating the controversy surrounding Wiley.
Wiley’s attorney, Jennifer Barrett, has staunchly defended her client, dismissing the allegations as baseless and refuting any inappropriate conduct on Wiley’s part. She emphasized the lack of evidence supporting the accusers’ claims and hinted at potential legal action against Wiley by his detractors. The situation appears to be escalating towards a legal battle, with both Ingram and Awuah-Darko reportedly planning to sue the artist.
In light of these developments, Kehinde Wiley remains resolute in defending his reputation and refuting the accusations leveled against him. The artist’s legal team is prepared to combat the allegations and challenge the credibility of his accusers. As the controversy unfolds, the art world watches with bated breath to see the outcome of this troubling saga.
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