a print edition of a figure wearing traditional mask inspired by Mask design in Nigeria with a bold pink jumper against a wall of books

Dennis Osadebe

In Search For Light

€850

Edition of 5065.0 (H) × 46.7 (W) cm

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Dennis Osadebe probes the boundary between wisdom and mystery.

In Search For Light places the artist's explorations of Nigerian culture in a contemporary context. Despite the mystery instilled by its subject's mask (inspired by traditional mask design in Nigeria), the image projects positivity with bright colours and a familiar library setting. Rows of books, suggesting knowledge, frame the masked sitter – relaxed and poised, with hands entwined and resting on an upholstered green chair. Osadebe’s graphic figures and settings emerge from his artistic process, in which he composes works digitally before transferring them to canvas with highly-pigmented acrylics.

The artist, Dennis Osadebe, faces the camera dressed in cream lined, his back reflected in the glass doors behind him

Dennis Osadebe2 collaborationsOne question is at the heart of Dennis Osadebe’s art – “what will Nigeria’s future look like?” His graphic and colourful portraits show masked figures going about their daily tasks. The settings are familiar, but things are quietly odd. One person rides a broken motorbike in their living room. Another stands with a horse in a library, totally nonchalant. The masks themselves are inspired by the expressive features of traditional Nigerian designs. To create his scenes, Osadebe sketches his designs directly onto the computer, partly inspired by cartoons he loved as a kid. Next, he prints the images onto paper and adds acrylic paint over the top. The artist mixes digital and analogue techniques on purpose – as a symbol of our times.

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Reviews from Avant collectors

The work is exceptional and looks fantastic. Thanks for doing a beautiful job executing and shipping it, very much appreciated.
Review of Actual Size
simply one of the most well produced prints i have ever purchased. its absolutely beyond what i was expecting. so beautiful!!!
Review of Prismatic Head Composition
Not only the artwork, but also the unboxing was was a highlight itself - thank you for your perfect service!
Review of Guardian
very impressed with the quality of packaging and the high level finish of thr framing & artwork! look forward to pucharing more pieces in the future.
Review of Prismatic Head Composition
Excellent on every level - buying experience, communication, framing and packaging by (which was exceptional) and of course, the actual artwork - it is stunning in real life - really delighted.
Review of Guardian
WellWellDone. looking forward to your further offerings i may support.
Review of Actual Size
love it! beautiful sturdy wooden box and gloves supplied to handle and protect the artwork.
Review of Descendent - Lucid Dreamer
I absolutely love the textured details. The picture literally pops off the canvas and the floating frame encompasses those details perfectly. Amazing job by Jake Fried and the Avant Arte team! I'm excited for my next purchase.
Review of Open Eyes (Signal)

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