My kind of art is a fusion of figurative expression. Utilizing the grayscale nature of charcoal alongside colors in acrylic, I create contemporary paintings that discuss situations in African society. The skin is an essential thing I love to create, which requires focusing on details. It’s also accompanied with vibrant colors. I then bring it all together by incorporating bubbles—this is meant to “capture the moment” and convey a sense of temporality. My art tends to create a dialogue with viewers, calling their attention to catharsis and making them wonder how on earth it was made. I make use of acrylic, graphite, charcoal and carbon on either Strathmore, alabaster paper or canvas.

Towards My Instinct, mixed media on canvas, 48 x 36" (121 x 91 cm) For decades, Western culture has been reluctant to assign an inherent value or purpose to art, even as it continues to hold art in high esteem. Though we no longer seem comfortable saying so, our reverence for art must be founded on a timeless premise: that art is good for us. If we don’t believe this, then our commitment—in money, time and study—makes little sense. In what way might art be good for us? The answer, I believe, is that art is a therapeutic instrument: its value lies in its capacity to exhort, console and guide us toward better versions of ourselves and to help us live more flourishing lives, individually and collectively.

 

Shirt of many colors, mixed media on canvas, 48 x 36" (121 x 91 cm) In this piece, my model decided to flaunt her new shirt while sitting on the stool.

 

I proceed by finding models and helping them understand the concept so they can get into character and exhibit the expression needed. Or I’ll meet up with photographers who share the same idea I have in order to create my story around the reference (certified permission is given by the photographer).

My theme and messages focus on situations in the African way of life, including corruption, self-esteem, negligence, greed, etc. 

Gistlover, mixed media on canvas, 48 x 36" (121 x 91 cm) The elderly ones in society are yet to adapt to the digital world; they are still in love with the traditional newspaper. My art captures that bond.

 

The watch doctor, mixed media on canvas, 48 x 36" (121 x 91 cm) This painting is about taking time to appreciate the people that repair our watches. In most societies they are seen as poor. My art tends to give hope and courage, putting one in a nice and lovely style while at work.

 

My art tends to help society recover and believe we can make our continent great if we unite. In conclusion, my art doesn’t just seek to correct the ills of society, it encourages and empowers the young and old in society to work and be determined in a positive way. Hence, they should never give up because “persistence is the key to breakthroughs.”  —