Esiri Erheriene-Essi

And All of My Friends Were There

€1,000

Edition of 35

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In vibrant paintings inspired by vintage photographs, Esiri Erheriene-Essi captures intimate vignettes of domestic Black life.

With 8 of 13 silkscreen layers individually hand-painted specially for the edition, the artist’s first ever print release draws focus to oft-overlooked everyday moments. These moments hold the essence of collective power and social change that Erheriene-Essi channels throughout her practice.

“It’s the greatness of these people who are just living their lives.”

International Women's Day
And All Of My Friends Were There is the fourth in a series of 6 editions drawn together by Avant Arte Chief Curator Gemma Rolls-Bentley to coincide with International Women's Day. Read the journal.

Behind the scenes

Esiri Erheriene Essi wearing a striped tshirt

Esiri Erheriene-Essi1 collaborationEsiri Erheriene-Essi is a figurative painter who depicts quiet histories of Black life. She paints from a wide collection of photographs, predominantly from the 1960s and 70s – sourced online, at flea markets and occasionally from her family archives. Erheriene-Essi begins by sketching on her computer, editing the source image and creating a sort of digital collage which is later sketched up on the canvas in ink. Before painting, she adds more images from her archive through a process of xerox transfer. Thick brushstrokes are then applied in oil in her impressionistic style. Comic-books and modernist painters from The London School such as Lucian Freud were a formative influence for the artist, while Classical painting and theorists such as Stuart Hall and Tina Campt continue to inform her work.

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Reviews from Avant collectors

Having purchased many items from outside NZ, I can say with sincerity, that the communications, packaging and delivery have been exemplary! A copybook experience for an online, overseas art purchase. Thank you!
Review of Out of the Dark
The piece looks great and we love having it in our home and added to our collection! Thanks so much...
Review of Out of the Dark
Excellent quality of execution - love it!
Review of B BOY JUSHI
excellent and amazing. just a marvellous experience dealing with Avant Arte
Review of Dissipate
really pleased, would happily recommend and also purchase again from Avant Arte
Review of Actual Size
The print itself is of the highest quality and above expectations. The packaging also is of the highest level.
Review of Ringers #962: The LACMA Iterations
I think your service excellent. Sufficient information throughout the process, not too many emails, thank you. Wrapping 5stars. And the print is superb! Fulfills my little dreamsof owning some art and supporting arti/artists that deserve it.
Review of Dissipate
its wonderful. i love buying from you all.
Review of Sierra

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