Wisdom in Patterns, Stories in Eyes: Segun’s Artistry

When, for the first time, my eyes met the hypnotic eyes of a character in one of Segun’s works, I was instantly charmed. As I scrolled through the rest of his work on Instagram, I couldn’t help but marvel at their striking beauty, combining floral motifs with African traditional patterns and symbols. What originality! I had to get in touch with this extraordinary artist to learn more about his world and invite him to join the ranks of the ARTssembly, which I did without delay. Segun’s response was just as prompt, and a few days later, we met by video call.

Segun Abraham, a Nigerian visual artist from Ondo State, born and raised in Edo State, Nigeria, and a graduate of Auchi Polytechnic with a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Painting, gave me a fascinating breakdown of his work. He explained that the big eyes of his characters stem from cartoons and comics that influenced him as a child. As for the mosaic of motifs and symbols on the characters’ faces and bodies, it’s intended to communicate a certain aesthetic, but more subtly, African wisdom and values.

Their faces feature Adire decorative motifs; Adire is a dyed fabric made in southwestern Nigeria by Yoruba women. These motifs pay homage to the Yoruba culture from which Segun originates. Adire symbols (e.g. cowries for wealth, cassava leaves for life) and Adinkra symbols (from Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire) are mixed on their bodies (which he calls the ’embodiment’), representing concepts, proverbs, aphorisms, and human qualities, such as the presence and protection of God, leadership and charisma associated with royalty, cooperation, and perseverance. His practice is deeply rooted in exploring themes of human identity and our interconnectedness with nature.

Inspired by traditional African motifs, Abraham’s works fuse cultural heritage with contemporary expressions, creating powerful narratives that reflect both personal and collective experiences. His work delves into the intricate tapestry of human identity and our profound connection with nature. Drawing inspiration from traditional African motifs, he seeks to bridge the past with the present, weaving cultural heritage into contemporary expressions.

Through vibrant colors and dynamic compositions, he explores the essence of who we are and our relationship with the natural world. Each piece is a reflection of his journey to honor and celebrate the rich traditions of Africa while inviting viewers to reconnect with their own roots and the environment around them.

Afterward, Segun and I discussed his business relationships with galleries and his financial status as a full-time artist in Nigeria. While he knows you need money to live, his artistic passion drives him most. His dream? To have a large studio worthy of his art, which would also enable him to support other artists.

Thank you very much for this enriching meeting, Segun, and may the doors to success open wide for you.

Let yourself be hypnotized by Segun’s works, and don’t hesitate to purchase one or more of them here.

Follow him on:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/segun_abraham_art/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Segun-Abraham-Art/100063685864987/

https://www.facebook.com/segun.abraham.311?mibextid=ZbWKwL

X: https://twitter.com/segun_art?t=Us9Olkj4CN8vaJI87B9jYA&s=08

Location: Lagos (Nigeria)