Reincarnation (Ịlọ Uwa) Painting

I am an Igbo from Nigeria. I make paintings using photographs, mixed-media and found objects. By abstraction, I find that my “primitive” expressionist movement reveals an inherent awkwardness. I also consider movement as a metaphor for the ever-seeking man I am today. I experienced and survived the almost annihilation of the Igbos of Nigeria, a present theme in some of my work. My paintings don’t always reference recognizable forms. The results are deconstructed to the extent that meaning is shifted and possible interpretation becomes multifaceted. By questioning the concept of movement, I create intense personal moments created by means of rules and omissions, acceptance and refusals, luring the viewer to look and see beyond the obvious. I present everyday objects as well as references to texts, symbols, politics, history, architecture and Utopian constructivist designs that are juxtaposed with trivial objects of which some are altered or detached from their natural function. I subtly reverse categories. Forms that do not follow logical criteria but are based only on subjective relationships and formal parallels are addressed. I incite the viewer to make new personal associations. My works demonstrate how life extends beyond its own subjective limits. Based on such impressions and inspirations I commence my work and my artwork often comes to life in little series. Each painting is unique and the creation and development of each painting can be a time consuming process, usually lasting many days or weeks. I currently live and work in Houston TX.