Memories Drawing

Daniel Atenyi (b. 1997) is a self-taught Ugandan artist based in Kampala. Initially focused on commissioned works, he has shifted towards a more personal and expressive practice, allowing him to delve into complex themes of self-perception through his art. Atenyi's work centers on abstract figuration, investigating the intricate dynamics of how individuals perceive themselves and how they are perceived by others. He draws inspiration from daily life, analyzing the impact of societal progress on personal identity. His art raises critical questions about the discrepancies between self-image and external perception, illuminating the varying influences these perceptions can have. Working primarily on paper, Atenyi employs a range of techniques, from intimate sketches to larger drawings and experimental washes using water-soluble pigments. His choice of materials, including charcoal and natural earth-toned pigments like coffee, symbolizes a grounded simplicity that contrasts with the complexities of his subjects. Through his self-taught methods, Atenyi has developed a unique visual language that recalibrates reality through the abstraction of the human form. His aim is to foster a dynamic interaction between the viewer and the artwork, inviting deeper contemplation of identity and perception.