All Eyes On Eghosa Raymond Akenbor

I like to describe my works as experimental, entertaining and dramatic; a rich combination of fresh colours and found objects. There are unheard stories in every canvas of mine, and colours and shapes are extremely vital to this visual narrative hence the urgent vibrancy and countless formations in every painting. The process involved in creating every story feels very much like sculpting with paint – a paradox of coating the canvas in layers and layers of paint to expose a new dimension of form and colour.

Every one of my paintings provides an opportunity to travel; to embark on a journey, one which is filled with an open-endedness that ensures the traveller experiences a rich, worthwhile and wholesome adventure that is at once enthralling and personal – every painting is open to a personal intimate interpretation. Whilst deeply rooted in the declarative culture of my homestead, my art remains fresh, innovative and ever ready to challenge the status quo. I see my paintings as a warm magical place for singing, dancing and beating of drums; as a happy stream for spontaneous choreography and sudden leaps for the moon; as a time, machine that takes my viewers to places where cheeriness and deep meaningful contemplation coexist.

I am greatly inspired by the environment – the hues in some of my paintings are reminiscent of the brilliance of the ‘African’ sun and some indescribable intangibles. I also use recycled materials and scraps in my works – call it, my little homage to the environment.

As an artist, I believe that creating art is a form of celebration. It allows me to express my emotions and share my happiness with others. Every stroke of the brush is a moment of jubilation, and “Celebration 1” is no exception. It is a reflection of the best version of myself, a celebration of life and all its wonders.