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Joseph IdowuJoseph Idowu, "Persistence Of Expectations" - Acrylic African Figurative 20232023
2023
About the Item
Joseph Idowu’s Persistence Of Expectations is a striking original acrylic on canvas measuring 60 x 48 x 1.50 inches (152.40 x 121.92 x 3.81 cm). Born in Nigeria, Idowu explores themes rooted in African identity and childhood reflections. Part of a larger body of work initially presented in his solo exhibition titled Before the Wooden Wall, this piece stands out for its rich detail and symbolic narrative.
The central figure’s elaborate headdress, adorned with stylized butterflies and jewel-like accents, evokes a regal aura while the background hints at the woodgrain motif significant to Idowu’s personal history. Raised in a small wooden house, the artist merges recollections of humble beginnings with aspirations of a brighter future. Through the layered acrylic technique, he creates swirling, ligneous patterns reminiscent of actual wood textures—a nod to his memories of childhood and the passage from one phase of life to another.
The poised figure, depicted with poised gaze and subtle tension, holds a red rose infused with surreal elements. This rose can be seen as an emblem of both beauty and fleeting time, reinforcing the piece’s overall theme of hope and endurance. By foregrounding an African subject in a dignified, contemplative pose, Idowu challenges pervasive stereotypes and invites viewers—especially those appreciative of African and Black figurative art—to connect with the universal inner child.
Unframed but ready to hang, this handmade artwork carries cultural resonance through its emphasis on personal memory, identity, and transformation. It offers a compelling addition to collections seeking prominent African voices in contemporary figurative painting.
Artist Biography:
Joseph Idowu (b. 1993) creates distinctive works characterized by meticulous wood grain texturing across painting, pyrography, and sculpture. This contemporary Nigerian artist graduated with top honors from Obafemi Awolowo University, where he received his B.A. in Fine and Applied Arts. His artistic vision developed further through residencies at Lagos-based Universal Studios of Art and Akpojotor Studios. Idowu employs innovative techniques including pyro-painting, which harnesses fire as a creative medium, and incorporates symbolic elements such as melting clocks to explore themes of time and hope. His compositions deliberately counter stereotypical portrayals of African children by presenting them as dignified, elegant individuals with depth and intelligence. Idowu has exhibited internationally, including at the ART CONTACT Istanbul International Contemporary Art Fair and Lagos' Impart Fair, as he continues his mission to reshape global perceptions of African youth while celebrating the universal aspects of humanity.
- Creator:Joseph Idowu (1993, Nigerian)
- Creation Year:2023
- Dimensions:Height: 60 in (152.4 cm)Width: 48 in (121.92 cm)Depth: 1.5 in (3.81 cm)
- Medium:
- Movement & Style:
- Period:
- Framing:Framing Options Available
- Condition:
- Gallery Location:Denver, CO
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU1308216020772
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