I gazed upon the reference image of a model I had worked on years ago and it made me reflect on my life’s journey so far. A past that seemed uncertain but still panned out fine and a future where I didn't know what to expect; especially preparing to move to a country I last lived in as a toddler with no navigation. It started off as a joke as I hadn't painted in years so my initial plan was to render a similar image of the model but the essence of the piece itself poured forth from my soul, each brushstroke echoing a silent prayer, a fervent hope. At its heart stood the verdant figure, reminiscent of a green plant — that figure was me, in my purest form, yearning to thrive against the odds.

The world around me seemed shrouded in obscurity, a vast expanse of the unknown. Yet, piercing through this veil of darkness was a gentle, pale yellow light. To me, it symbolized hope, a beacon guiding me through life’s tumultuous nights. Like a lone star in the vast, starry sky, this light whispered promises of better tomorrows, urging me to persevere.

Adorning my ear was a closed flower, delicate and full of potential. Its presence was a reminder of the dreams I held close, the aspirations waiting to unfurl. With every passing moment, it hinted at the beauty yet to be revealed, a silent testament to the wonders that awaited.

Amidst this tapestry of emotions, open red and yellow lilies danced gracefully. Their vibrant hues spoke of passion, love, and the unyielding spirit of life itself. They were a celebration of moments cherished and challenges overcome, a vivid reminder that even in the harshest of conditions, beauty could flourish.

In “That I May Bloom,” I found a reflection of my journey — a testament to resilience, hope, and the undying spirit of growth. Through every element, from the radiant light to the blossoming lilies, I was reminded of my innate desire to thrive, to embrace life’s complexities, and to bloom unapologetically. This piece is not just art; it is my heart laid bare, a fervent wish captured on canvas, a testament to the endless possibilities that await me in this place I now call home.

As an artist, “Like the Waters” is a deeply personal exploration of the intricate dance between aspiration and courage. In this piece, the canvas becomes a metaphorical expanse of open waters, embodying the limitless possibilities that life presents. The focal point, however, lies in the vibrant green open hands that delicately sieve through the clear blue waters.

These hands symbolize my belief in the audacity required to grasp life’s opportunities, much like the boldness inherent in the open waters. The act of sieving reflects the artist’s determination to filter through experiences, extracting the essence that propels personal growth. The connection between the hands and the water is a visual representation of the symbiotic relationship between aspiration and courage, illustrating how one’s ambitions can be nurtured by the daring spirit akin to the vastness of the open seas.

Adding an additional layer of symbolism, the infinity bracelet adorning the wrist of one hand becomes a poignant detail. It serves as a tangible reminder that the artist sees hope and determination as enduring forces. The loop of the infinity symbol signifies an unbroken cycle, suggesting that the spirit to aspire, to achieve, and to do more in life is everlasting.

“Like the Waters” invites viewers to reflect on their own journeys, encouraging them to embrace the boundless opportunities that life presents. The juxtaposition of the open hands and the clear blue waters encourages a sense of courage, beckoning us to navigate the vastness of our aspirations with audacity and determination. The infinity bracelet, a quiet yet powerful detail, reinforces the idea that the resilient spirit to hope and strive lasts infinitely, mirroring the enduring nature of the open waters themselves.

As an artist, “Against the Melanated Sky” is my heartfelt tribute to the exquisite beauty found within the spectrum of dark-skinned women. This piece is a vibrant tapestry that weaves together the rich diversity of our hairstyles, seasons, and the profound appreciation of our bodies. It stands as a powerful testament against the backdrop of condemnation that unfortunately exists within our own community.

The artwork invites viewers to revel in the myriad expressions of beauty that emerge when different shades of melanin harmonize with an array of hairstyles. Each woman depicted in the piece carries her unique essence, proudly embracing the authenticity of her natural self. It’s a celebration of the inherent beauty that comes with diversity, a message intended to resonate beyond the canvas and into the hearts of those who encounter it.

Amidst the sea of dark brown hues that form the ever-moving sky, there stands a captivating figure — a black ginger woman. Her fiery orange hair dances like flames, a symbol of strength and individuality. Freckles grace her face, adding an extra layer of uniqueness to her identity. In her stance, one can sense a quiet but unyielding bravery.

This depiction of a black ginger woman is intentional, challenging preconceived notions and expanding the definition of beauty within the black community. It’s a celebration of those whose features might fall outside conventional norms but are undeniably striking and remarkable.

“Against the Melanated Sky” seeks to inspire a shift in the narrative, encouraging a celebration of our differences rather than perpetuating divisive norms. It serves as a visual manifesto, inviting us to appreciate and uplift one another, recognizing that our collective strength lies in the vibrant tapestry of our diverse identities.

Through this piece, I aim to contribute to a dialogue that fosters inclusivity and self-love within the black community. It is my hope that viewers, regardless of their background, will find inspiration in the resilience and beauty captured within “Against the Melanated Sky.”

The central motif, a brain-like headpiece worn by the figure, serves as a visual metaphor for the mind in turmoil. The intricate network of cracks and fractures in the headpiece mirrors the fragmentation and strain experienced by an individual grappling with the overwhelming weight of their own thoughts. The fetal position assumed by the figure at the painting’s core conveys a vulnerability and a sense of retreat, highlighting the instinctive response to overwhelming stress — a desire to withdraw and find solace in the recesses of one’s own mind.

The confrontational stare of the central figure pierces through the canvas, engaging the viewer in a dialogue about the emotional intensity depicted. The continuous use of the color red throughout the composition amplifies the emotional charge, symbolizing the urgency and heightened emotional state associated with anxiety. This visceral color choice draws attention to the profound physiological effects of stress, manifesting not only in the mind but coursing through every vein and artery.

The parallel action of the figure, replicated at multiple points within the room, represents the pervasive nature of anxiety, infiltrating various aspects of an individual’s life. The broken plates scattered on the floor, a failed attempt at kintsugi, mirror the shattered fragments of a person’s emotional well-being. The concept of kintsugi, the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with gold, signifies resilience and beauty in imperfection. However, in this instance, the shattered plates remain unresolved, symbolizing the struggle to mend and heal in the face of overwhelming anxiety.

The continuous growth on the walls serves as a visual representation of the unchecked proliferation of stress, spreading like vines and tendrils that invade and conquer the environment. The walls, once a neutral backdrop, now bear witness to the persistent and insidious nature of anxiety, leaving an indelible mark on the surroundings.

“I’ve Got a Lot on My Plate” is not merely a static image but a dynamic exploration of the interconnectedness of mental and physical well-being. Through a synthesis of visual elements, the painting invites viewers to contemplate the profound impact of anxiety on the human psyche, urging empathy and understanding for those navigating the intricate landscapes of their own minds.

“Upholding a belief system that is widely perceived as supreme and sovereign, often encourages the disregard for other religious practices.
The common disregard of other religious practices in Nigeria especially the indigenous belief is one to discuss.
Despite being of Christian faith, I personally find it ridiculous that we disregard other belief systems and practices.
The realness of spirituality and religion cuts across every belief system on the planet.
This series was inspired by my late grandfather who was a diviner of Ifa from a young age. I might not fully understand or relate to the belief system but I no longer disregard it.”

-Kemi Awoyemi.

A brief discussion on my study:

Orisa Obatala

In this image is the Yoruba god, Obatala. He is believed to be the Sky Father and the creator of human bodies, which were brought to life by the smooth breath of Olodumare. Obatala is the father of all orishas. He is perceived to be the almighty light bearer, thus the Yoruba traditional scarification marks which in my illustration are light panels.
It is widely believed here in Africa that we are descendants of these deities and certain individuals might be reincarnations of these gods, this is why I decided to use actual people for this illustration.
Here is a strong resilient figure modelled after the model, Nelson. I thought he had strong and distinct facial features that show bravery, authority and godliness.
These are purely expressionist drawings based on my imagination as an Artist.

Orisa Osun

In this image is the Yoruba goddess, Osun. She is one of the most popular and venerated Orishas. Oshun is an important river deity among the Yorùbá people. She is the goddess of divinity, femininity, fertility, beauty and love. Osun is connected to destiny and divination, thus the striking headpiece, embellishments and the goddess aura. The choice of complexion radiates love and fertility.
It is widely believed here in Africa that we are descendants of these deities and certain individuals might be reincarnations of these gods, this is why I decided to use actual people for this illustration.
Here is a strong resilient figure modelled after the model, Boma. I thought she had strong and distinct facial features that show beauty, authority and godliness.
These are purely expressionist drawings based on my imagination as an Artist.

Orisa Yemoja

In this image is the Yoruba goddess, Yemoja. She is one of the most popular and venerated Orishas. She is the mother of all Orishas. She is a patron spirit of rivers, particularly the Ogun state river in Nigeria; and oceans in Cuban and Brazilian orisa religions. Yemanjá is motherly and strongly protective, and cares deeply for all her children, comforting them and cleansing them of sorrow. She is said to be able to cure infertility in women, and cowrie shells represent her wealth. In this illustration it was my intention to project tranquility, vulnerability as well as the core essence of the deity, thus the choice of complexion, the pose and stare.
It is widely believed here in Africa that we are descendants of these deities and certain individuals might be reincarnations of these gods, this is why I decided to use actual people for this illustration.
Here is a strong resilient figure modelled after the model, Lara. I thought she had strong and distinct facial features that show peace, authority and godliness.
These are purely expressionist drawings based on my imagination as an Artist.