Okoye Emeka
Discover a young emerging talent
Art galleries serve as dynamic hubs that not only showcase established artists but also play a pivotal role in the discovery and promotion of emerging talents. These spaces are essential in fostering creativity, providing a platform for artists to express themselves, and enabling art enthusiasts to engage with fresh and innovative perspectives. One of the most exciting aspects of an art gallery's mission is the continuous exploration and discovery of new talents that contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art.
OOA GALLERY possess a keen eye for innovation and the ability to recognize artists who push boundaries and challenge traditional norms. OOA GALLERY is honoured to repesent from January 2024 a young emerging Nigerian talent: OKOYE EMEKA!
Okoye Emeka, a distinguished Nigerian artist born in 1997, embarked on his artistic journey during his formative years, finding solace in drawing and crafting caricatures amidst academic struggles. His profound connection with art evolved at the University of Uyo, shaping the foundation of his artistic expression.
Currently represented by OOA GALLERY in Sitges, Barcelona, and Mitochondria Gallery in Houston, Texas, Okoye Emeka emerged as a standout among young talents in 2022. His accolades include participation in the Thurgood Marshall College Fund exhibition alongside renowned artists, signaling his remarkable artistic evolution from exploring still lifes and landscapes to transformative inspirations from masters like Rembrandt, John Singer Sargent, and Anders Zorn.
Okoye's masterful command of human expression is evident in the portraits presented by OOA GALLERY end of January 2024. His immersive approach, rooted in profound conversations with models, goes beyond technical proficiency, aiming to unveil the intimate essence and inner life of his subjects. These portraits, predominantly capturing young and middle-aged subjects, symbolize the boundless energy, ambition, and dreams inherent in youth while exploring themes of liberation from the past and embracing the present.
Okoye's paintings transcend mere representation, advocating for the fortification of emotional intelligence and empathy, and delve into his black identity, Nigeria's history, and broader African narratives, echoing themes of colonialism and immigration. His work reflects a fusion of universal emotions and a deep connection to African heritage, making Okoye Emeka a distinctive voice in the contemporary art scene.
Read the essay by Marga Perera, Art writer, Tendencias del Mercado del Arte
Olivia Mae Pendergast
An emotional immersive experience
Investing in art extends beyond mere financial considerations; it is an immersive journey driven by a profound love for creativity and expression. While some may view art as a potential financial asset, authentic art collectors often prioritize their emotional connection to the pieces they acquire. The true allure lies in the transformative power of art, elevating one's quality of life and offering an authentic, emotional experience.
Art transcends the mundane, capable of evoking strong emotions that range from sheer delight to poignant introspection. When one engages with art, it's an endeavor to connect with it on a personal level, irrespective of the artist's identity or the gallery's prestige. The real collector's journey involves thorough exploration—researching the artwork, delving into the artist's philosophy, and understanding the contextual nuances of the creation.
Pearl Lam encapsulates the essence of true art appreciation, asserting that the motivation behind her art acquisitions is purely heartfelt. It's not about a calculated investment strategy but an authentic connection, a resonance with the artist's values and beliefs. The emphasis is on acquiring artwork that one cannot resist contemplating, learning from, and ultimately must possess. Genuine collectors exhibit empathy towards the art itself, ensuring it is showcased and respected in its entirety, independent of the artist's reputation. In essence, the act of buying art is an investment in one's own well-being, a celebration of the profound impact that art can have on one's life.
A Bridge connecting Cultures
Olivia Mae Pendergast, an American-born artist, embarked on a transformative artistic journey when she discovered Africa, specifically in Malawi, in 2008. Subsequent travels to places like Haiti and Bangladesh followed, but it was in 2016 that she chose to make Kenya her home. While she has explored landscapes, Pendergast's true passion lies in portraiture, capturing the essence of "ordinary" people in their daily lives with a remarkable subtlety.
Her seemingly simple depictions belie a profound creativity and a quest for subtle effects that leave a lasting impact. Pendergast's paintings possess a contemporary and progressive quality, while also nodding to the revolutionary old masters of the 20th century, such as Picasso, Modigliani, and Gauguin. The influence of Modigliani is particularly evident in the elongated forms and expressions of her Kenyan subjects, paying homage to the iconic artist while maintaining a unique and significant style.
Pendergast's art transcends mere aesthetic exploration; it becomes a bridge connecting cultures. Rather than appropriating African motifs, she candidly acknowledges her inspiration as an American artist living amongst Kenyans. Her empathetic approach is palpable, evident in the trust and comfort her subjects exude, having willingly posed for her.
Her loose, transparent oil brush strokes and pastel earth colors serve as intentional visual devices, allowing viewers to peer beyond physical traits and connect with the true essence of her subjects. Background tones are like brilliant spices. Pendergast's work challenges the debate on whether a non-African artist can be considered contemporary African, asserting that anyone who centers African people, culture, and narratives with sincerity should be embraced.
Her paintings, infused with a spirituality that transcends the mundane, celebrate the everyday hero. Each canvas becomes a song, a melody to humanity, echoing the dignity and magical aura inherent in every individual. With meticulous attention to detail and background, Pendergast crafts a visual symphony, where pastel hues harmonize with the energy or languor of her subjects, creating an immersive experience that goes beyond the surface, resonating with the soul of each portrayed figure. In Pendergast's art, every person becomes a magical entity, a testament to the profound beauty found in the ordinary.
