Brum Creatives – Steve Ajao Front Cover
Above is a photographic portrait we produced for our 'Brum Creatives' portrait project that we exhibited in 2014, featured as the front cover of the latest edition of 'My Moseley & Kings Heath' magazine. The purpose of the project was to showcase the story of talented Birmingham Creatives through considered art direction, photography & styling. Steve Ajao has been amazing Brummie music lovers for over 30 years, performing with Steve Ajao's Blues Giants, as well as performing solo. Steve is accomplished both on guitar - electric, acoustic & dobro, and saxophone - tenor, alto & soprano. His talents don't stop at music and he is also an accomplished artist, we had the privilege of viewing some of his work at his home where we shot this portrait. Styling was provided by Atoo menswear, a long established and well loved independent menswear boutique in Birmingham that has sadly recently closed its doors. The relaxed boxy fit 'Creep' painters coat in a natural coloured textured jacquard cotton seemed the perfect choice for Steve, who maintains a mild mannered sunny demeanor despite being considered as a local legend. Steve's own garden porch seemed the perfect setting to capture the influences of the American deep south, the home of blues and a big influence on Steve's musical journey. Thanks to Steve for making us feel right at home, thanks to Atoo for the clothing and to the Custard Factory's Whatnot & Doodah for the hand painted porch rocking chair. Also thanks to My Moseley & Kings Heath for the front cover.