Artist in Focus: Chike Emembo
Chike Emembo, a multidisciplinary artist and art entrepreneur, is a creative force driven by the fusion of modern professional practices with ancient traditional foundations. Born in July 1979, Chike embarked on his artistic journey at Nwafor Orizu College of Education Nsugbe, Anambra State, where he pursued a double major in sculpture and graphics, subsequently obtaining a B.A.(Ed) Fine and Applied Arts from the University of Nigeria Nsukka. Influenced by the art of the Byzantine and Renaissance eras, his early works were primarily oil paintings exploring Christian faith-based narratives through contemporary African lenses. However, his artistic evolution led him to experiment with new mediums, with foam sheets becoming his current muse, enabling him to create unique collages interlaced with lines and often incorporating charcoal or oil paintings.
Themes in Chike's Art
Chike's solo exhibitions delve into Christian faith-based narratives through a contemporary African perspective. He explains, "Christianity was spread in contemporary Africa by European missionaries, leading many Africans to believe it to be the White man's religion." His aim is to accurately document and amplify the participation of people of color in Christianity while providing historical context. Additionally, he seeks to make biblical imagery relevant to the 21st century by tweaking traditional representations, inviting viewers to see themselves reflected within these narratives.
One of Chike's notable endeavors is "The Plates and Palettes Project," a pioneering initiative conceived in 2014 to address the scarcity of alternative art spaces in Abuja. This project, initially conceived as a means for artists to showcase their work directly to the community, has blossomed into an annual event of great anticipation.
Through this project, Chike aims to create direct conversations between artists and the community, showcasing diverse talents and engaging residents in meaningful dialogue. This project, born out of a need for alternative art spaces in Abuja, has evolved into an annual event, with plans to expand nationally and internationally.
Style and Artistic Techniques
Chike's artistic style is influenced by his early exposure to European art, particularly the Renaissance era. He initially worked exclusively with oils, creating representational pieces with thick glazes. The Byzantine era's narrow pool of concepts and interpretation also shaped his approach, leading to series exploration and integration of gold accents in his recent works.
His transition to foam sheets as a primary medium stemmed from a desire for experimentation and a pivotal moment during an artist talk where he realized the importance of pursuing ideas without constraint. This shift revolutionized his artistic process, introducing mechanical activities like grid setting and tile cutting. While the process is longer and more immersive, it offers a liberating sense of inspiration and exploration.
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Legacy and Outlook
Chike envisions his legacy as one that champions the holistic role of artists as entrepreneurs, encompassing management, production, marketing, and distribution. He hopes to inspire fellow artists to embrace these aspects of the art business, recognizing their significance in the industry's sustainability.
Regarding the future of African art, Chike sees a vibrant renaissance fueled by the continent's youthful energy and confidence. He predicts a solid establishment of the local art market, free from external validation, and anticipates continued documentation of cultural transitions through traditional themes infused with contemporary expressions.
In essence, Chike Emembo's artistic journey embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting the rich, African heritage while embracing the dynamism of modern creativity. Through his work and advocacy, he not only leaves a lasting legacy but also paves the way for a flourishing future of African art.
