When Mouono picked up the phone for our video call, he was going to the Exposition sous l’Arbre (Exhibition Under The Tree), an annual group exhibition of some thirty artists in Yaoundé (Cameroon). He was in the midst of preparations for the event’s 6th edition.

It was on Instagram that I discovered his works, which, in my opinion, are magnificently eccentric and deeply rich in mystery and emotion (despite the absence of eyes in his characters), all served up in an elegant and unique style.

During our discussion, Mouono explained his art to me, in particular the fact that the characters in his works have “white bubbles” instead of eyes. This particular trait originates in an emotional wound the artist experienced following the betrayal of a friend. The event paralyzed his inspiration for months before Mouono decided to pick up the brush again.

When he got back to painting his first characters had no faces, a way of forgetting that of the “traitor”. Over time, facial features appeared, but the eyes remained empty as if to symbolize the scar of the amicable rupture. A scar that, ironically, now contributes to the beauty of his works.

In addition, Mouono and I discussed his artistic journey; from drawing cartoon characters to the realization that he couldn’t “really” draw, followed by a degree in fine arts and an intensive investment in his artistic practice to become what he is today, a full-time artist.

One of Mouono’s most memorable and inspiring comments was that “as an artist, you have to take yourself seriously to be taken seriously”. I was also lucky enough to see Mouono’s work installed for the Exposition sous l’Arbre up close and personal, and to discover the very subtle and original way he signs his works.

You can find out for yourself by purchasing one or more of his beautiful works here: https://mawuartgallery.com/product/untitled-1/

Follow him here: https://www.instagram.com/mouono_2/

Location: Yaoundé (Cameroon)