Arthur Jafa says he won’t abandon Kanye West: 'I love Ye'

Beyond music, Kanye West has proved his talent in art and other creative fields, such as design. Yet controversy has often dogged him.

But that won't stop Arthur Jafa from collaborating with him.

He is one of the most celebrated artists and filmmakers whose work explores Black identity, racism, and violence, among other themes.

Jafa has been a frequent collaborator of Ye. He directed the rapper's music video Wash Us in the Blood.

He used West's track Ultralight Beam on his arguably best-known work, Love Is the Message, The Message Is Death.

Now, ahead of his upcoming exhibition at the New York museum, Jafa was asked about his past work with Ye.

“Love Ye,” he told The New York Times, adding, “He’s been incredibly supportive of me."

The artist continued, "He’s a person and artist I deeply respect and clearly a genius."

Jafa said that while supporting West, he clearly distinguished the rapper from his art and the toxic statements he made before.

"Plus, I’m not into discarding Black folk simply for things they say. And, just imagine if we held the President and crew to those same standards.”