Isese
$5,000.00
Isese is a hypnotic, deeply spiritual portrait rooted in Yoruba sacred metaphysics and ancestral veneration (Ìṣẹ̀ṣe). Rendered in a monochromatic palette of silver, ash, black, and charcoal, the central priest or devotee looks outward with serene, penetrating eyes, hands joined solemnly at the chest. Every contour of the face, body, and glowing aura is composed of continuous, labyrinthine, maze-like lines that resemble fingerprint whorls, tree rings, and topographical maps. At the pinnacle of the head sits an actual cowrie shell, symbolizing royal wealth, destiny, and the divine crown (Ori Inu). The hypnotic, meditative surface elevates the human portrait into an icon of cosmic connectivity and sacred lineage.
Artist Name
Korede Samson Kareem
Artist Statement
My work explores the intersection of contemporary Nigerian identity, memory, and collective human emotion. Through dynamic figurative portraiture and rich, textured layers, I capture the quiet dignity, resilience, and complex narratives of my community. Each piece serves as an evolving archive, translating personal heritage into a vibrant, universal visual dialogue.
Artist Bio
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