Performing Art – Memphis
francis, the Truman (born Joshua Oselen) is a Memphis-based poet, mixed media artist, and wardrobe stylist. Known for curating and hosting spoken word events around the city, francis draws inspiration from poets like Jill Scott, Nubia Yasin, Gil Scott-Heron, Mak of Memphis, and Kendrick Lamar. His style & approach to visual art pulls from the likes of Harlem Renaissance painter, Jacob Lawrence, and is often translated through his graphic design works. When he’s not making flyers & digital art renderings, you can find francis tending to his fashion boutique where he retails custom, reworked, and vintage apparel. The looks he’s curated in his shoppe reflect a lot of the costume design from 90s film & television with an esteemed reverence & admiration for the work of Ruth E. Carter. Often regarded as a “Renaissance Man”, the Truman has found purpose in cultivating a community & culture rooted in healing, sustainability & bold self-expression.