Hi guys it's Eme here & I'd like to believe someone out there actually cares about my opinion & I'm not just talking to myself. Even if you don't particularly care (tragic), can't hurt to give this post a look? *please*
As you can see from my straightforward title, I'm going to talk about 8 artists I really really like/ think you should know if you don't already. I think this post will give you an insight into the kind of art I gravitate towards. I have quite a varied selection of artists on the list: young, old, famous, not famous, up and coming. Nevertheless, all incredibly talented artists that I'm excited for you guys to discover as well.
1. OLUSEYE
First off, Oluseye; an artist who utilises Yoruba mythology and geometric form to create stunning portraiture in the exploration of themes such as sexuality, spirituality as well as identity. I'm particularly fond of his focus on the black male face and his confident use of angular line. I discovered him randomly on Instagram and I've been hooked ever since! His work is strikingly beautiful.
2. VICTOR EHIKHAMENOR
Victor Ehikhamenor has some of the most unique pieces I've come across. His style is bold and distinctive drawing inspiration from traditional African motifs and wall paintings/installations in community shrines. His pieces are definitely not ones to disappear in the background. I admire the boldness of them and how they almost always tend to ignite stimulating conversation. Aside from being an incredible artist, he has a terrific personality (I met him at a networking event and he confirmed our strong standing friendship) & his captions on Instagram food posts just might be a work of art on their own
3. ELLY SMALLWOOD
I am particularly drawn to Elly's expressive approach to painting. If there was one word I could use to describe her paintings it would probably be "emotion". There is something incredible about the way her use of deep hues and confident brush strokes captures intense emotion in a single portrait. I also love that she mostly works large scale- it ties in well with the expressive paintings to give more fuel to the impact on the viewer.
4. SONIA KATIMI
5. MIMI SHODEINDE
You might have probably heard of her in relation to her unique approach towards furniture design. If she wasn't talented enough in that department- she's also an incredible painter. Admittedly, I haven't seen that many paintings from her but judging from what I have seen, I don't need to- I'm sold! What really drew me to her series "Iwa" was how experimental it was- the pieces are textured with sand, tissue, and salt. The end result is a truly exciting piece of work. You can tell she's not afraid to push boundaries and do things a little differently.
6. DONALD ROBERTSON
This is definitely one you're going to love or hate but I will probably judge you if you fall into the latter category. Donald's art has proved to be extremely successful particularly within the beauty and fashion industry- scoring collaborations with the likes of Smash Box, J Crew and Bergdorf Goodman. His work is colorful, exciting and fun! Definitely a 2017 Warhol. Not to mention he has the cutest kids.
7. BUNMI AGUSTO
One of the most talented young artists I've come across. We were lucky enough to do a GTK with her which you can check out here. I've only followed her work for a short while, but she's quickly become one of my favourites. I'm a big fan of her expressive portraits- particularly how she portrays them in unconventional shapes/form as well as how she incorporates fabric into the mix. I am very very excited to see what she has in store!
8. NDIDI EMEFIELE
Last but definitely not least! Steph and I have been opportune to see her paintings in the fleshand they are absolutely stunning. I especially love that she has a focus on the black woman, a subject that is commonly disregarded in the larger society. There is something about the women she portrays that really captivate your attention. Her work communicates the variations of what a black woman can be- ultimately suggesting that there shouldn't be a standard but rather as a society we need to come together and recognise individuality of women and embrace the beauty in that variation. Truly iconic.
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