AUGUST 2023
I ART COLLECTION
“Against the Grain” This exhibition is a celebration of human identity and the journey toward achieving one’s dreams. Throughout the collection, you will notice a recurring motif of masks worn by characters, symbolizing the tendency of individuals to adopt different personas rather than being their true selves in the presence of others.
The artwork draws inspiration from traditional concepts of beauty, reflecting the artists roots in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, as well as my experiences as a young Black man living in Cincinnati. The vibrant drawings and paintings delve into themes of societal, familial, and cultural expectations, exploring the complexities of living within these structures.
This inaugural show features pieces that are larger than life, with the largest work measuring 6 feet by 5 feet. Each piece invites viewers to engage with the nuances of identity and the courage it takes to embrace authenticity.
Human nature - “The butterfly effect” Butterflies in the painting represent a distraction. Missed opportunities.”
Year: 2023
Medium: Acrylic, Sharpie pen on Canvas
Size : 6 x 5 foot
(Sold)
Peace of mind - “Adapting to locations and lighting.”
Year: 2023
Medium: Acrylic on Canvas
Size : 2 x 4 foot
(Sold)
Scared to dream - “Even the most beautiful dreams can turn into nightmares when we have to look at everything objectively. Sometimes it is okay to dream.”
Year: 2023
Medium: Acrylic, Sharpie pen on Canvas
Size : 5 x 4 foot
Lost in a dream - “The end does not justify the means if you end up losing yourself in the process.”
Year: 2023
Medium: Acrylic, Sharpie pen on Canvas
Size : 4 x 2 foot
Who am I - “At what moment in our life can we say we have been fully vulnerable being so called ourselves, comfortable enough to take off the mask that we wear.”
Year: 2023
Medium: Acrylic, Sharpie pen on Paper
Size : 4 x 5 foot
Afraid to fail - “The laughing mask is a representation of our deepest fears. A depiction of someone laughing at something. Before we even set on a new course in life.”
Year: 2023
Medium: Sharpie pen on paper
Size : 5 x 4 foot
Afraid to start - “It’s only a matter of time until that fear starts to become visible in our actions and takes control of our every step.”
Year: 2023
Medium: Sharpie pen on paper
Size : 4 x 5 foot
Comfort Zone - “To thrive in life and reach the highest levels of success could mean different things for all of us.”
Year: 2023
Medium: Sharpie pen and marker on paper
Size : 4 x 5 foot