The Art of Okolo Oliver

June 29, 2020 Velvet d'Amour

Artist statement

In every figure art there is a story behind it. The forms, values, structures, composition, facial features

all come together to convey my message to the world. As an artist, there is a very deep intimacy

between me and my work. Through combination of lines with different materials like charcoal, acrylic,

gesso I create my works which give a feel of both classical and contemporary perception. I have a great

respect for the texture of my paper or canvas, so with unblended strokes I create striking realistic

figurative works.

I am fascinated by nature and humanity, which is the reason why I explore the possibilities in creating

with the human figure. I consider my works to be classical- contemporealism, a term I coined up to

better express my love for classical (renaissance) and contemporary art. Working with charcoal give me

the closure I always seek with my ancestors as charcoal is considered the oldest medium which can be

tied to the early cave men of Africa. Also adding acrylic or gesso to my work gives me a more

contemporary feel.

As an artist I feel art is a way to bring humanity together. I try to use my work to express my ideas and

speak to the people of my community and also raise self-awareness within the minds of my audience. I

draw inspiration from the people I see every day, as I paint them I connect to them and I am able to help

tell my story to the world

Curator Madeline Walsh