It’s been nearly 15 months since Takeoff passed away, and the tributes have been tributing during that time! But one piece of art is gaining momentum online this week for its precise artistry and the artist behind it.
Cleveland, Ohio, artist Mr. Officials took to Instagram on Monday (Jan. 29) to unveil the first Takeoff wax figure. In his caption, the artist shared a prayer for Take and encouraged his following to share the post.
“Dear Take, God has you in your keeping, we have you in our hearts. May this sculpted creation serve as a living tribute to the memory of Takeoff. Today you are recognized and Immortalized with The World’s First Takeoff wax figure. Share this with everyone you want to see take off this year!”
Take a look at the artwork below.
Mr. Officials’ post offered another testimony about never giving up on your dreams, even in the face of defeat.
“‘People think that you’re gonna come out, be a one hit wonder, and finished. You gotta prove ’em wrong.’ -Takeoff This is YOUR YEAR, don’t wait until the end of the year to finish strong! You can finish even in the beginning! It’s time to Takeoff! Finish what you’ve started,” the artist wrote in his caption.
In the clip, Mr.Officials revealed he’s “grieving and mourning” amid closing his Ohio storefront after three years in business. The self-titled practice specializes in custom apparel and embroidery, sublimation, heat transfer vinyl, and more, per his site.
Not only is the artist allegedly losing his business, he also revealed that his 14-year-old car is “on its last wheel.”
“I’ll be homeless if all goes well. Now, before you start feeling sorry for me, I’m okay. My gift will make room for me because it always has. And even with all my losses, I still believe that this is my year. I’ve heard God say over and over, ‘Finish what you started.'”
Mr. Officials said despite his urge to re-invest his money into his personal needs, he leaned into God’s voice. One of the projects he decided to finish was Takeoff’s wax figure, believing that 2024 will be the year he takes off!
Watch Mr. Officials’ full behind-the-scenes video below.