Jakobe Frazier, Winner of OKC Thunder Art Contest
Sixteen-year-old Jakobe Frazier, a sophomore homeschool student from Tulsa, is already making a name for himself with his art. His piece, Defenders of the Flag, recently earned top honors in the Oklahoma City Thunder’s Black Heritage Art Contest—an achievement that put his work in front of a statewide audience. Inspired by history, family and a deep sense of pride, Jakobe uses art to tell stories that matter.
TK: How old are you and what school do you attend?
Jakobe: I’m 16 years old, and I’m a homeschooled student in 10th grade.
TK: Tell us about the artwork you created for the OKC Thunder Black Heritage Art Contest. What does “Defenders of the Flag” represent?
Jakobe: It represents generations of Black American soldiers from the past and the present. For hundreds of years, they showed so much bravery and strength. It’s about the pride they felt being Americans and defending our country and our flag.
“Defenders of the Flag” by Jakobe Frazier
TK: What inspired you to create this piece?
Jakobe: I was inspired by my grandfather, who fought on the frontlines of the Vietnam War. I also learned about the history of other Black American soldiers we don’t always hear about, like the Buffalo Soldiers. It made me feel really proud. When I heard about the contest, I knew right away that this was the story I wanted to tell.
TK: How did it feel when you found out you won the contest?
Jakobe: I was so happy I was speechless! This was the very first art contest I ever entered. It felt amazing to be recognized after putting so many hours of hard work into my piece.
TK: How long have you been interested in art?
Jakobe: Since I was 2 years old. When I was little, I had some trouble talking, so art was how I expressed myself and showed how I saw the world. I fell in love with it. I don’t even know what my life would be like without art.
Jakobe Frazier and an OKC Thunder logo he drew with sidewalk chalk
TK: What kinds of art do you enjoy creating the most?
Jakobe: I love drawing the most, especially with colored pencils and markers. I also enjoy digital art, painting and sidewalk chalk. I even love to build realistic props out of cardboard.
TK: Do you have a favorite artist or someone who inspires your work?
Jakobe: I really like Jordan Persegati. He’s a funny horror artist on YouTube who is so talented. I also love Lisbeth Checo. She draws beautiful, realistic people. The way she layers her markers and pencils to make things look real inspired me a lot.
TK: What’s something people might be surprised to know about you?
Jakobe: My cardboard crafts have actually gotten millions of views on YouTube. You can check out my work at @MobFireX.
TK: When you’re not making art, what do you like to do for fun?
Jakobe: I like to make my own beats, watch basketball, listen to music and shoot hoops. I also love exploring nature with my mom and my dog.
TK: Do you have a dream job or goal for the future?
Jakobe: My dream is to become a successful, famous artist and YouTuber.
