At the heart of Guerilla Arts Ink LLC is Gabriel "Asheru" Benn, an award-winning artist, educator, and social entrepreneur with a passion for empowering communities through the arts. As a veteran educator and a pioneer of the Hip-Hop Education Movement, Gabriel has dedicated his life to bridging the gap between creativity and learning, transforming how students and educators engage with education.
His work is rooted in the belief that the arts have the power to inspire change, foster community, and give voice to those who have been historically marginalized. Gabriel's unique approach to education combines his deep understanding of hip-hop culture with innovative teaching strategies, making learning more engaging and relevant for students of all backgrounds.
Gabriel's journey began as a hip-hop artist, known for his contributions to the iconic TV show The Boondocks and for his work as a Peabody Award-winning lyricist. However, he soon recognized the gap between the arts and education and decided to take action. In 2006, Gabriel founded Guerilla Arts Ink LLC, with a clear mission: to break the stereotype of the "starving artist" and create a space where artists can thrive while making a positive impact on their communities.
His experiences as an artist and educator led him to develop the R.H.Y.T.H.M. framework, a transformative approach to education that fosters relationship-building and cultural responsiveness in the classroom. Gabriel believes that true learning happens when students are connected to their culture, their passions, and each other, and this philosophy drives all of the work that Guerilla Arts Ink does today.
News & Articles
Stay Updated With Gabriel’s Latest Insights
Gabriel is not only a visionary educator and artist but also a thought leader in the world of arts and education. He regularly shares his perspectives through articles and writings, exploring the intersections of culture, creativity, and learning. Stay tuned for his latest news, insights, and contributions to the ongoing dialogue around arts education and social change.
Relationships and Rapport: "You Don't Know Me Like That!"
7 Ways to Make High School "Suck" Less
How Can We Be Thoughtfully Culturally Relevant?
Art Is the Lesson for Rapper and Educator