The originality, mysterious texture, and sheer beauty of Uchechi’s work attracted me at first glance. I was particularly curious to learn more about the mediums she uses, which give such an elegant and unique character to her work.

My video encounter with this skilled mixed-media artist was most interesting. I discovered not only a passionate and disciplined artist but also a true businesswoman who knows her art and her clientele inside out.

Uchechi describes herself as a rather introverted artist who expresses herself fully through her art. As a child, she had difficulty communicating with the world and found great comfort in drawing, and then writing.

As she grew older and studied economics and education, she realized that art had always been more than just a hobby for her. It was a therapy, an escape, a passion that helped her get through difficult times and be in harmony with her inner self. From that moment on, she decided to fully devote herself to it.

It was under the mentorship of artist Gbolade Omidiran that Uchechi developed the magnificent style we see today.

In her works, Uchechi can include up to ten mediums and materials, including oil paint, acrylic paint, nylon, coral beads, natural stones, synthetic leather, polyester, satin, fiberglass, wood, sawdust, metal… In short, her creativity defies all limits.

She draws her inspiration from nature and her immediate environment, but what I particularly liked about her answer to my question was that she didn’t try to give me a precise, satisfying answer. In truth, Uchechi is truly inspired during the execution of the work, which puts her in a state of relaxation and creative immersion. In this state, every element of the work’s composition instantly takes on meaning. That’s all she wants and all she needs.

The final part of our interview focused on the art market, in particular how Uchechi works to strike a balance between what the public wants and what she wishes to offer as an artist.

Despite her thirst to create and define herself through her art, she understands, thanks to her background in economics, that the art market, like any market, is subject to trends, preferences, and the law of supply and demand. You have to deal with all these factors if you want to prosper as an artist, or at least make a living from your art. Even for me, it’s a truth that’s hard to swallow sometimes…

It was a real pleasure for me to talk to this Artrepreneur and gain great insights from her.

Uchechi, please continue to amaze us with your unlimited creations.

Now, people, go take a look at her beautiful work (to which the photos don’t do justice, by the way). You’d probably be better off buying a couple of pieces straight😊.

To do so, click here: https://mawuartgallery.com/product/the-female-music-maker/ 

Follow Uchechi here: https://www.instagram.com/iam__gifthy/

Location: Lagos (Nigeria)