Artist in Focus: Akachukwu Chukwuemeka (Akabeks)
When discussing contemporary African art, one name shines brightly: Akabeks, born Akachukwu Chukwuemeka in 1971 in Nigeria. A graduate of painting from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Akabeks' art serves as a mirror reflecting the intricate layers of society, blending personal narratives with broader socio-political dialogues. Through his series "Forms from My Sky," Akabeks invites viewers into a world where each artwork is a chapter, each stroke a word, in the grand story of human experience.
Exploring Themes:
Migration, familial relationships, societal dynamics, and cultural traditions emerge as prominent themes in Akabeks' oeuvre. Take, for instance, "Forms from My Sky no 26: Migration." Through a blend of vat dye and acrylic on canvas, Akabeks captures the complex phenomenon of migration. He challenges the accepted narratives, presenting migration as a cultural exchange, enriching the fabric of society rather than merely a journey from one place to another.
Similarly, in "Forms from My Sky no 59: Wife and the mother in-law 2," (pictured above) Akabeks delves into the intricate dynamics of family relationships. Through vivid imagery, he portrays both harmony and conflict between mothers-in-law and daughters-in-law, encapsulating the nuances of this age-old relationship within the cultural context of Nigeria.
Technique and Style:
Akabeks' technique is as diverse as the subjects he explores. Utilizing vat dye and acrylic on canvas, he employs a method akin to batik, infusing his works with vibrant colors and intricate patterns. This fusion of traditional Nigerian art forms with contemporary painting techniques adds depth and texture to his creations, inviting viewers to immerse themselves fully in the stories he presents.
In "Forms from My Sky no 72: High #2," (pictured above) Akabeks tackles the theme of intoxication, whether through substances, spirituality, or tradition. Through bold strokes and contrasting colors, he captures the euphoria and disorientation of being 'high,' prompting viewers to reflect on the various forms of escapism prevalent in society.
Inspiration and Cultural Significance:
Each artwork in Akabeks' series is imbued with layers of cultural significance and personal inspiration. "Forms from My Sky no 46: Full moon" (pictured below) draws from Nigerian folklore, weaving a tale of resilience and justice under the watchful gaze of the full moon. Through his art, Akabeks preserves and reimagines these cherished stories, breathing new life into age-old myths.
"Forms from My Sky no 18: Traditional Marriage" (pictured below) celebrates the richness of Nigerian traditions, specifically the elaborate rituals surrounding marriage ceremonies in Igbo society (southeast Nigeria). By capturing the vibrancy of these cultural practices, Akabeks pays homage to his heritage while also inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty and complexity of Nigerian customs.
Akabeks stands as a visionary storyteller, weaving tales of migration, family, tradition, and societal dynamics through his evocative artworks. With each piece in his "Forms from My Sky" series, he invites viewers on a journey of introspection and discovery, challenging preconceived notions and celebrating the diversity of human experience. Through his masterful technique and profound insights, Akabeks leaves an indelible mark on the canvas of contemporary art, reminding us of the power of creativity to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and transcend boundaries.
