ABOUT

A product of the culturally rich Spring Garden community in North Philadelphia, Kimpedro! is an artistic force, weaving together the worlds of illustration, music, and education. As an illustrator, drummer, bandleader, author, educator, and visionary creative consultant, his work embodies a lifetime of artistic exploration and cultural influence.

Kimpedro’s formal education in fine arts, advertising design, illustration, and graphics was honed at institutions such as the Philadelphia College of Art, Hussian School of Art, and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, alongside influential mentors like his mother Delores, painter Kippy Stroud, and educators Byrde Tuckerman and Leslie Kamison.

From his first art award at age 7 to leading the youth group of SmithKline’s "Potentials" program, Kimpedro’s journey has been marked by a passion for creativity. His early success, including designing a poster for the Philadelphia Opera Company, foreshadowed a career filled with notable collaborations and leadership roles in the arts.

Athletically, Kimpedro shined as a championship high and triple jumper, and a dedicated basketball captain. His musical journey began in the rhythm-filled streets of his neighborhood, later evolving through formal training and diverse performance experiences. From co-founding the successful JazGuardian Musician’s Organization to performing with Philadelphia’s musical elite, Kimpedro’s percussion skills have left a lasting impact on the city’s cultural landscape.

In 2012, Kimpedro founded The NU GRuV Network, an artists’ collective that quickly became a pillar of Philadelphia’s creative community. Under his leadership, NU GRuV has produced and co-produced numerous successful events, including sold-out shows and unique cultural festivals.

Kimpedro’s multifaceted career also includes roles as a production assistant, session musician, and creative consultant. His work has been featured in prestigious venues like The Kimmel Center, The Barnes Foundation, and the Museum of The American Revolution. He has collaborated with a wide array of artists and organizations, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the arts.

Currently, Kimpedro serves as a Creative Arts Recreation Specialist for Philadelphia Parks & Recreation, where he introduces children to the arts and prepares them to perform on major Philadelphia stages. He is also completing his first solo book project, “GOD is The Ultimate Time Keeper: This Drummer’s Story,” set to be released in 2026.

With a deep spiritual foundation, Kimpedro continues to create, teach, and inspire, driven by a belief that when you acknowledge God as the source of all creativity, “The Sky is Not the Limit!”