Enslavement
This body of work explores the human journey through struggle, resilience, and liberation, drawing deeply from African cultural symbolism and personal reflection. Each piece—First Fall, Bondage, and Freedom—unveils a chapter in the cycle of growth: from confronting ancestral and personal trials, to acknowledging the unseen weight of mental and societal bondage, and ultimately, arriving at a place of power and spiritual emancipation. Through bold imagery, layered storytelling, and symbolic elements, these works invite viewers to reflect on their own path—where they’ve come from, what holds them back, and the strength that propels them forward.
First Fall 30x40 Acrylic on canvas An exploration of history and cultural symbolism, First Fall highlights the four elemental forces of life and their connection to the past, present, and future. Rooted in African heritage, the piece reflects a culture that has endured every terrain and risen above adversity. On a personal level, it speaks to the human journey—how challenges shape us, yet we continue to rise, growing beyond the obstacles that once held us back.
Bondage 40x40 Acrylic on canvas Bondage delves into the layered realities behind appearances—how what dazzles can also conceal struggle. A figure bursts from the earth, adorned in shackles disguised as jewels, with symbolic objects atop a masked face representing mental enslavement. The work explores identity, perception, and the invisible weight carried beneath the surface, inviting viewers to question what lies behind the glamour.
Freedom 20x30 Acrylic on canvas As its title suggests, Freedom captures the essence of liberation—both spiritual and material. A figure, robed in royal attire, sits on a throne atop a dismembered African mask, set in a barren desert. The stark setting contrasts with the power and resilience symbolized in the composition. This piece reflects the triumph over trials, celebrating the beauty of rising above limitations and embracing one’s full strength.