Bio
From Carnival Worker to Civil Rights Advocate: The Journey of Tactical Media Artist and Community Champion
Gabe Kis is a civil rights advocate, strategist and conceptual artist whose journey began at 16 as a carnival worker, sleeping under rides and building his life from the ground up. Emancipated as a teen with no family in America and only a ninth grade education, he has since lived in 5 major cities and two other countries , transforming adversity into resilience and purpose.
Early in his career, Gabe’s relationship with CBS’s Harry Smith to was recognized by the New York Daily News, where he was compared to Eldin from Murphy Brown for his ability to seamlessly fit into the daily routines of his painting clients. Years later , he was featured alongside Emmy Award- winning journalist Alex Denis, further cementing his reputation as “New Yorks Painter to the Stars.” Gabe gained respect and recognition as the go-to guy for A -listers across the worlds most well known figures in every genera – art – music, law, film, pop culture , photography, design , industrial design and business titans. He was honored to have worked with Paul Newman, Joanne Woodward and Guy Davis , son of Ossie Davis – each committed advocates for civil rights and social change.
As a tactical media and conceptual artist, Gabe received international attention through the Associated Press and Fox News when he used the hypothetical sale of the Golden Gate Bridge on e-Bay to highlight major flaws in e-Bays verification policies. His tactical media experience began with front page of cultural coverage in Norway and has continued to shape his approach to advocacy, storytelling and social change .
Gabe’s commitment to hard work, excellence and recognizing the power as art medium to create discourse and draw attention to social issues fuels everything he does. His passion for community building was featured in The United States National Times , and during the COVID 19 international health crisis, His efforts alongside two- time Grammy Nominee Guy Davis inspired elected officials to issue two heroes proclamations, as well as an additional proclamation honoring Guy Davis.
Today, Gabe focuses on civil rights for the homeless in Hoboken , New Jersey. He believes the current approach has lost its way, with the wrong people holding far- reaching influence. His mission is to bring civil rights of Hoboken’s homeless front and center – especially during this important election season- while preserving the cities generous and joyous spirit and preventing it from facing challenges seen in places like San Francisco.
Gabe has never lost a court case even when representing himself and is known for combining grassroots organizing with strategic media expertise. His story is one of resilience, determination and the unwavering belief that working -class voices can make a real difference – one community, one court case and one proclamation at a time.
Dreams are torn when trust is broken. Join Gabe Kis and his team at r/FreedomfighterNJ and FreedomfighterNJ.com to create lasting change for vulnerable communities. Together we can build a future where every voice is heard and every life is valued.