The Transparent Trend I (2018)

“Incorporating bright colours and a minimal, pop aesthetic, Dennis Osadebe (b. 1991) describes his artistic practice as a “neo” visual style. His mixed media works ( digital illustration and acrylic on canvas) portray scenes that are at once surreal and absurd, commonplace and mundane. His works are inspired by ethnic Nigerian masks, technology and art history. In his works he uses play and provocation to invite viewers to critically think about their world and their place within it. “For me, Neo Africa is a cause worth standing for, and it is also the inspiration behind my current work.” “The predefined ideas of what ‘African’ art is and what is accepted as ‘African’ art constricts the creativity of many ‘African’ Artists’ as well as the viewers and collectors of these artworks. We need artists expressing themselves with their true raw inspiration. That is what will lead to groundbreaking works and longevity. We need to look at the work for itself and not think nationality, the same way the artist paints from a blank canvas, allow the viewer to paint the artist from a blank canvas. Neo Africa is fresh, it has a moral fury, an energy of vibrancy behind it… Neo Africa is an ideology about reimagining Africa. It is also the character of the 21st century artist who is energetic, provocative and progressive. It is full of soul, personality and hope. Neo Africa is an attitude, it’s a reality, it is the now reality.”

-Konbini

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