Kadir Nelson was born on May 15, 1974, in Washington, DC. He grew up in a family where creativity and education were highly valued. His mother, Emily-Diane Gunter, was a motivational speaker who inspired him to pursue his passion for art. From a young age, Nelson showed a talent for drawing and painting, and his parents encouraged him to develop his skills.
After graduating from high school, Nelson attended Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, New York, where he studied illustration. During his time at Pratt, Nelson honed his craft and explored different artistic styles and techniques. He also took courses in African-American history and culture, which would later influence his work as an illustrator.
Upon graduating from Pratt Institute, Nelson began his career as an illustrator. He quickly gained recognition for his detailed and emotive artwork, particularly in children's books. One of his early collaborations was with author Debbie Allen on the 1999 book "Brothers of the Knight." Nelson's illustrations brought the story to life and captivated readers of all ages.
In 2000, Nelson partnered with Deloris and Roslyn Jordan to illustrate "Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream." This book, which chronicled Michael Jordan's journey to basketball stardom, showcased Nelson's ability to capture the spirit and determination of his subjects.
In 2013, Nelson wrote and illustrated "Nelson Mandela," a Coretta Scott King Honor-winning book that celebrated the life and legacy of the South African leader. Through his powerful images and poignant storytelling, Nelson honored Mandela's commitment to justice and equality.
Other notable works by Nelson include "Heart and Soul: The Story of America and African Americans" and "If You Plant a Seed," which have earned him critical acclaim and a devoted following of readers.
Outside of his artistic endeavors, Nelson is a devoted husband and father. He draws inspiration from his family and the world around him, using his experiences to inform his creative process. Nelson's passion for storytelling and representation is evident in his work, which continues to resonate with audiences across the globe.