Bukola Orioye

Defiance II

2022

At the heart of "Shadows and Diamonds," we encounter the theme of shadows. John ingeniously uses shadows to represent the obscured aspects of our individuality, the parts of ourselves that are hidden from the outside world. These shadows can be seen as the unexplored depths of our personality, our fears, or our secrets. The young man in the artwork seems to embrace his shadows, suggesting a willingness to acknowledge and confront those hidden aspects of his being. By portraying shadows as an integral part of the artwork, John challenges us to embrace our own shadows and accept them as essential components of our identity. The shadows in "Shadows and Diamonds" serve as reminders that the multifaceted nature of human existence is not limited to what is visible on the surface but extends far beyond, into the realm of the intangible and the mysterious. While shadows represent the hidden aspects of self, diamonds in the artwork symbolize the facets that shine through, the qualities and characteristics that we choose to reveal to the world. Diamonds are known for their brilliance and sparkle, and in "Shadows and Diamonds," they represent the positive attributes that we proudly display to others. They symbolize our achievements, our talents, and the qualities that make us unique and valuable. Through the juxtaposition of shadows and diamonds, John invites us to reflect on the delicate balance between revealing and concealing different aspects of our identity. The young man's beaded necklace, adorned with diamonds, suggests a celebration of self-discovery and the courage to embrace and showcase the diverse elements that constitute our true selves. In addition to the symbolism present within the artwork, Makama John...

At the core of "Boy Bee," we encounter the symbol of the blue face cap. The blue color carries diverse connotations, representing tranquility, freedom, and a sense of calm. In this artwork, the blue face cap becomes a powerful symbol of the wearer's individuality and self-expression. It suggests that the young man is using his choice of headwear as a means of asserting his uniqueness and setting himself apart from societal norms or expectations. The face cap becomes a metaphorical shield, allowing the young man to navigate the world on his own terms, symbolizing his desire to create his own identity and carve his own path. By prominently featuring the blue face cap, John invites viewers to reflect on the significance of personal style as a form of self-expression and as a means of celebrating our distinctiveness. "Boy Bee" encourages contemplation of the intricate nature of identity and the journey of self-discovery. The young man in the artwork exudes a sense of confidence and self-assuredness, suggesting that he has embraced his unique qualities and is comfortable expressing them. His choice of the blue face cap hints at his exploration of various aspects of self and his willingness to experiment with different forms of personal style. John's portrayal of the young man invites viewers to consider their own journeys of self-discovery and the power of embracing individuality. The artwork encourages us to question societal expectations and norms, urging us to uncover and celebrate the diverse layers that make us who we are. "Boy Bee" serves as a reminder that true fulfillment and happiness come from authentically expressing ourselves, even if it means deviating from the conventional path. In "Boy Bee," Makama John...

"Desert" by Makama John is a captivating portrayal of a lady poised before a plate of food. The artwork deftly captures the complexity of human emotions th...

"Self-Portrait" is a timeless genre of art that has been created by countless artists throughout history. One such artwork is the self-portrait by Makama John. The background of the...