I am drawn to creating charcoal portraits because of the bold and expressive power of charcoal. I love the intricate process of capturing the likeness and features of a human face in soft shades of black and gray. The fact that each portrait starts on a blank surface before transforming is a constant reminder that I can achieve whatever I desire in life. I mix these portraits with pieces of fabric, adding layers that gives the work texture. Merging black and white portraits with the rich colors, patterns and textures of fabric gives the work a lifelike appearance. Working this way has created a method that allows me to express pride in my African culture and heritage.
My art process begins with research on the theme I wish to express. Research provides knowledge, inspires ideas on how to apply the concept, and answers to questions which may arise from incorporating the concept. I take inspiration from art historical such as Leonardo Da Vinci and contemporary artists Yinka Shonibare, Nick Cave, Kelvin Okafor and John Madu. Next, I choose a surface to work on and source authentic fabric with patterns and colors that excite my thematic idea. I visit Fabric Land for Canadian made fabrics while I visit Dede Afro-Caribbean store for Dutch wax prints. Merging these unique entities enables me to express myself in both African and Canadian culture. I draw the face unto the surface of the primed plywood using a makeup brush and charcoal powder to create soft textures that capture the face in a realistic manner. Finally, I attach pieces of fabric to compliment the portrait, they are incorporated into areas like the headwear and clothing to match the figure. Doing this allows me to create a bright effect of colors by substituting traditional paint with fabric.
I have chosen to make a series of mixed-media portraits because looking back, my art started with an interest in graphite portraits. However, due to its extremely soft nature I sought to incorporate charcoal as a finishing tool over it. During my studies, I was immediately exposed to mixed media and collage making. I gradually began to incorporate fabric into my works in year three and ever since my work has gradually transformed. In this work, my aim is to explore ways of expressing African Fashion in relation to contemporary. African fashion has greatly evolved after colonialism, the western world serves as a mirror in which contemporary African cultures imitate their fashion ideas from. An instance is the traditional wrapper that was formally only tied around the waist is now styled into various blouse concepts which are worn to attend daily activities. The aim of my work is to style Dutch wax fabric with contemporary ideas to show the different ways in which African fashion is being influenced. This way I also invite the viewer to engage with African heritage and contemporary style.