Kemi
Yemi-Ese
Opulently Black: Try Jesus
2020, Oil on panel, 24 x 18 in
Kemi
Yemi-Ese
Opulently Black: Topaz
2020, Oil on panel, 24 x 18 in
Kemi
Yemi-Ese
Opulently Black: Adure
2020, Mixed media on panel, 20 x 16 in
Kemi
Yemi-Ese
Untitled
2020, Photography, 26 x 18 in
Kemi
Yemi-Ese
The Mine (not Yours)
2020, Color photograph, 26 x 18 in
Kemi
Yemi-Ese
Still Waters
2018, Mixed media on panel, 20 x 16 in
Studio Tour- Kemi Yemi-Ese
A brief look at my studio space and current pieces. I also take a moment to discuss my process and inspiration for my Oriki and Opulently Black series
About the Artist
Nigerian-American visual artist, Kemi Yemi-Ese, resides in Austin, Texas and has shown her art nationally as well as in and around the Austin area. Focusing on oil and acrylic mediums, Kemi creates engaging and bold art pieces. Following a near tragic car accident in 2006, Kemi became paralyzed and uses a wheelchair for mobility. Her art reflects the struggles and triumphs that living with a disability entail through imagery that is relatable. While vibrant, her artwork is also thoughtful and often challenges representations of mobility, gender, beauty, race, and divinity. Her current work is heavily inspired by her Nigerian heritage blending dynamic and contemplative portraits with cultural exploration.
Artist Statement
The emotions and stories that I paint are inspired by the resiliency of the human spirit. The subjects are established as forces to be reckoned with. Even the more stoic figures radiate with the confidence of a person who will fulfil their purpose no matter what obstacles may be in their path. My current work explores resiliency further as it relates to culture and identity. Opulently Black is a multimedia series of works that turn adornment into statements of how I've witnessed and experienced being black. I encourage audiences to reflect on their own experience while engaging with my art pieces.
The Austin Studio Tour is a program of Big Medium.
