This week on #ARTWITHDEEDS, we will be taking a look at the works of Akindele John.
Akindele John, born in 1995 in Ogun State, Nigeria, and currently based in Lagos, is an artist whose work deeply reflects the lives of people from Africa and the African diaspora. His vibrant color palette, ranging from rich jewel tones to striking neon brights, captures his subjects in thoughtful contemplation. Beginning his journey with charcoal and liquid acrylic, Akindele discovered that figurative painting offers profound insights into our identities as creative, interactive beings.
Akindele's art is distinguished by its loose, playful lines and the soft effects of his brushwork. His paintings pay homage to his African-Nigerian heritage, focusing on Black feminine expression and identity within African society. Notably, he celebrates the natural hairstyles of Black women, highlighting those who embrace their natural, afro-textured hair, thus emphasizing authenticity and cultural pride.
Over the years, Akindele has transitioned into a full-time studio artist, showcasing his work internationally. His command of figurative art vividly brings to life the movements and emotions of his subjects, leaving viewers inspired and captivated by the depth and vibrancy of his creations. Akindele John's art is a compelling reflection of the beauty and complexity of African identity and expression.
- What inspired your latest piece?
My latest piece titled 'In The Potter's Hands' wasinspired basically on the humble relationshipbetween human and nature in terms of recreationwhich is also backed up with my written poem whichsays;
Formless and shapeless Simple,
naive and unfamiliar to strife
For alone, and helpless but with GraceWorry and fear not! With Trust
Life is not easy,
But heat makes me strong (kiln)
Facing adversity, but Hopeful
I am but clay in the potter’s hands
Draws me out of the fiery baker
So, giving thanks
Not broken, not weakened, not cracked!Divine strong tool in the hands of my Maker.
-What’s your favorite work so far?
I feel connected with this particular piece titled'Spirit Of Love' which talks about a divine connectionbetween the soul and spirit, true and kind heart thatproclaims LOVE.
-Can you describe your creative process?
Basically getting inspired at first as I have mycanvases prepared in my studio, thereafter I note allinspirations down into my diary and also representpictorial sketches into my sketch pad, these takesweeks to be achieved, usually created a very smallpainting to have a clue of how it's going to look like inthe final and original piece, as I always trust theprocess positively.
