Visual artist Joseph Awuah-Darko accuses painter Kehinde Wiley of 2021 sexual assault

Visual artist Joseph Awuah-Darko has come forward with accusations of sexual assault against fellow artist Kehinde Wiley.

In a candid Instagram post on Sunday, Awuah-Darko recounted two instances in June 2021 where he alleges Wiley assaulted him.

“I was sexually assaulted by @kehindewiley. It nearly shattered me,” Awuah-Darko shared. “I hope that my voice and transparency about my painful experience will encourage others to speak up. I hope that the unfolding events lead not only to accountability but also to healing and restitution for other survivors.”

Responding to Awuah-Darko’s allegations, Wiley took to his own Instagram post on Sunday.

“Someone with whom I had a brief, consensual relationship almost three years ago is now making false accusations about our time together,” Wiley wrote. “I ask for privacy as I work to refute these claims.”

Wiley, a renowned New York painter, gained acclaim for his portraits of everyday individuals, particularly people of color from various backgrounds. He has also painted portraits of notable figures like Spike Lee, Carmelo Anthony, and former President Barack Obama.

In his post, Awuah-Darko detailed encountering Wiley at a dinner held in the artist’s honor at the Noldor Artist Residency, which Wiley founded in 2020.

During this encounter, Awuah-Darko alleges that Wiley groped him, grabbing his buttocks and making inappropriate remarks. Awuah-Darko described feeling shocked and uncomfortable, particularly given Wiley’s status as a respected artist.

Awuah-Darko also claimed a second instance of assault by Wiley, describing it as “more severe and violent.” He further suggested a pattern of predatory behavior by Wiley within the art world, which he believes has been overlooked for some time.

Directing his message to Wiley, Awuah-Darko challenged him to use his influence to silence survivors, expressing his determination to pursue justice.

In his response, Wiley refuted the allegations, describing them as false and harmful. He expressed confusion as to why he was being targeted and emphasized his commitment to defending his reputation.

Both Awuah-Darko and Wiley await further developments as their respective accounts are examined and scrutinized.