A vivid exploration of feelings that range from the longing for love to the depths of despair and depression.
In his second exhibition with Ìtàn, David delves deep into the essence of human emotions, capturing the raw and unfiltered experiences that define our lives. Through his distinctive style, David expresses what it means to be Black, what it means to be himself.
Each piece in "Portraiture" is a testament to the chaotic yet profound journey of creation. David’s creative process is a whirlwind of ideas and skills, where structure often gives way to spontaneity, allowing the art to speak for itself.
“I’m trying to showcase the feeling of what’s like to be black, what’s like to be me. ”
David's art is a blend of illustration, collage, and mixed media, creating a chaotic yet cohesive narrative that speaks to the soul. His abstract and symbolic works are deeply rooted in Afrocentric elements, drawing inspiration from his culture and heritage. From sun-shaped bronze motifs to other culturally significant symbols, David's pieces are a celebration of African identity.
Music plays a significant role in David's creative process, influencing pieces like "Dark Vacay," which reflects the emotions he felt while listening to "Dark Vacey" by Cigarettes After Sex. His artworks are not just visual experiences but are imbued with the rhythms and melodies that inspire him.
“My creative process is often chaotic. I really don’t know what I wanna create until I'm there in the mix. I trust my judgement and lead with that. There is so much doubt sometimes, you just gotta stick to your gut.”
Curator's Statement
“I am honored to present a body of work that profoundly captures the essence of human emotion and the complexity of the Black experience. David's creative process is as chaotic as it is captivating. His ability to blend mixed media, illustration, and collage results in artworks that are both visually striking and deeply symbolic.”
"Itan" translates to "story" or "history" in Yoruba. Yoruba people are one of the largest and most culturally significant ethnic groups in West Africa. Yoruba culture is known for its vibrant and expressive arts, including sculpture, textiles, music, dance, and storytelling. Yoruba art has a strong emphasis on symbolism and spirituality and has influenced the broader African art world. Itan Foundation World isn’t just about displaying art, but also about telling the stories and histories of West African artists, their cultures and their creative journeys. Each artwork is selected for its ability to evoke a sense of storytelling and exploration.