Introduction:
Oryiman Agbaka is an extraordinary self-taught artist whose creativity knows no bounds. Drawing inspiration from the depths of his inner world and the myriad influences that shape his surroundings, Agbaka's art serves as a vibrant canvas to celebrate the richness of African culture. Agbaka’s intriguing journey as a modern-day Frealism artist explores his unique approach to capturing the essence of both self and society through the strokes of his masterful brush.
Agbaka's work is characterized by its hyperrealism and attention to detail. He often depicts everyday scenes and people from his home in Nigeria, with a focus on capturing the beauty and resilience of the African spirit. He also uses his art to highlight important social and cultural issues, challenging viewers to think critically about the world around them.
Agbaka's art has been exhibited in galleries and museums in Nigeria and his unique approach to realism will continue to be used as a means of giving voice to the marginalized and underrepresented.
Artist Bio:
Oryiman Agbaka is a self-taught contemporary (VISIONARY) multidisciplinary artist and a freelance photographer, designer, and stylist skilled in painting and drawing, born and living in Nigeria, who loves to explore different styles and mediums of art but traditionally a ballpoint pen artist, he uses lines, shapes, and symbols to create a fusion between real and abstract worlds where they can coexist in harmony. Most of my artworks are created from home as I use my home as my workplace and studio which is where most of my artworks are being, however, I go into the streets sometimes to create art inspired by nature I use ballpoint pen and ink specifically because they are tools from ancient times used in telling stories and writings and truthfully, (The pen is mightier than a sword) and He uses them to tell the stories and experiences of his subjects by drawing realistic portraits and capturing their individual expressions. His artworks to a large extent depend on mood and need to deliver messages to the world intuitively.
Artworks and descriptions:
Exhibitions Certificate and Award:
- Crown Shyness Exhibition, London UK. (2021)
- Circa Gallery Open, Minneapolis, USA. (2021)
- Hysteria wtf, Germany. (2021)
- Saatchiart New this week collection feature
- The Resilience Exhibition at the National art gallery Enugu state, Nigeria. (2019)
- Nigerian literary and art collective (Nlaac) on Modern slavery and human trafficking (2020)
- Nigerian literary and art collective (NLAAC) 2020
Interview segment with Oryiman Agbaka:
Q1. How did your artistic journey begin? What factors influenced your decision to pursue art?
At the tender age of seven, I realized I had the ability to sketch both people and objects scattered about our home. An inner voice perpetually beckoned to me, nurturing my passion for the world of visual art. I would eagerly seize any available surface to manifest my creative impulses. In essence, I am a self-taught, multi-faceted visual artist hailing from Benue state, Nigeria.
One of the driving forces propelling me towards an artistic pursuit was the yearning for my voice to resonate and echo across the world. Art became my sanctuary, offering escape from the melancholic and painful reverberations of reality, and granting me refuge within the realm of my imagination.
Q2. What are the main sources of inspiration behind your artwork? Are there any specific themes or subjects that you tend to gravitate towards?
My major source of inspiration derives from the divine. I am able to draw inspiration from virtually anything that resonates with my inner self, impacts my community, or pertains to the broader world. I am particularly passionate about narrating stories encompassing themes such as historical events, the experience of the Black community, racial equality, political dynamics, wildlife, freelance photography, and a myriad of other subjects.
Q3. Do you have any favorite tools or materials that you always use?
I take great pleasure in using a ballpoint pen as a tool for artistic expression. However, I wouldn't say I like to limit myself in my practice. I derive immense satisfaction from exploring a diverse array of artistic mediums, including watercolor, pastels, charcoal, acrylics, and oils.
Q4. What does your art entail and how would you describe its style?
I would like to designate my artistic style as "Abstract - Frealism" a term I've coined by merging the concepts of Freedom as a means of expression and Realism, infused with a subtle touch of abstraction.
Title: Hunters; Angels and Demons
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https://artgallery.tribbbal.com/post/8994_hunters-angels-and-demons.html
Q5. Describe your artistic process and how you bring your creative ideas to life.
I have a deep passion for curating my creations into collections, yet my artistic process is predominantly driven by my feelings as it requires a wellspring of emotions that must be harnessed to produce each meaningful brushstroke required for crafting true masterpieces.
Q6. Can you share any interesting stories behind specific pieces of artwork?
This artwork, entitled "HERITAGE," was meticulously crafted using a ballpoint pen on paper. It garnered a spectrum of responses from various critics. I recall one instance when a staff member at the National Art Council characterized it as unsettling, asserting they wouldn't invest even a modest sum in acquiring such a piece. I couldn't help but chuckle, as it was evident that their judgment stemmed from a lack of understanding regarding the artwork's deeper meaning. Nonetheless, I took satisfaction in the fact that the piece succeeded in eliciting emotions from at least one observer.
Remarkably, "HERITAGE" has garnered a considerable amount of admiration both locally and globally. This original masterpiece is the result of a painstaking hand-drawing process with a pen on paper. Its creation was marked by ten thousand mistakes, each contributing to the final work's character. I embarked on this artistic journey with a brief meditation, channeling inner strength and patience to meticulously capture intricate details that serve to portray the wealth, abundant resources, and regal history of Africa.
The artwork represents an Elder in a pre-colonial African era, adorned with opulent beads, symbolizing the elevated status of the elite class prior to the onset of modern times, bathed in the golden glow of the sun. "HERITAGE" aspires to awaken the viewer's consciousness to recognize black people as kings, not as the historical slaves they have often been documented.
Title: Heritage
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https://artgallery.tribbbal.com/post/10777_heritage.html
Q7. What role do you think art plays in society and what do you hope your art contributes or communicates to the wider world?
Art typically assumes a crucial role in molding individuals' perspectives, emotions, and cognitive processes, serving as a potent and profoundly spiritual medium for self-expression.
Q8. What can we expect to see from you in the coming months in terms of upcoming projects, collaborations, or exhibitions?
At present, I am actively engaged in my work while harnessing my artistic abilities for therapeutic purposes. Therefore, I anticipate the possibility of embarking on a new project in the forthcoming months, or alternatively, seeking mentorship and pursuing an art degree when the opportunity arises.
Q9. Looking ahead, what are your aspirations and goals as an artist?
My goals as an artist revolve around establishing meaningful connections with my audience, having my works appreciated by people from all over the world, using my art to convey my personal narrative, and being able to give back to my community.
Title: Science
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https://artgallery.tribbbal.com/post/8940_science.html
Conclusion:
Oryiman Agbaka is a talented and versatile realism artist whose work has captured the attention of collectors and critics around the world. Agbaka's work is often inspired by his personal experiences and the people and places around him. He is particularly interested in exploring themes of identity, culture, and the human condition. His paintings have been praised for their honesty, and its ability to connect with viewers on a deep emotional level.
In conclusion, Oryiman Agbaka is a rising artist in the realism art world. His work is both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. She is an artist who is sure to continue to make a significant impact on the art world for years to come.
To learn more about Oryiman, please visit his profile:
