This series was created to explore the different emotions people feel and how they choose the express these thoughts with the outside world. By portraying contrasting emotions on one canvas, the artist aims to reflect on how the perception of one’s emotions is often misunderstood. The relationship that these concepts have with the contemporary mental health movement cites the importance of emotional communication.
The difficulties that come with misunderstood feelings can create barriers within relationships, often worsening an individual's mental health due to a lack of emotional comfort. Adedeji's work brings focus always back to the African diaspora. It is, therefore, important to link this discussion on mental health to the black community; within which, there are higher levels of anxiety and depression. With links to the racial inequity that they experience, it is imperative to remember that mental health needs to be taken seriously for everyone - and even more so for those communities that experience injustice.
Artist +-
O.D Adedeji
Three concepts guide the creative process of O.D Adedeji: heritage, legacy and contribution. As a portrait artist of Nigerian descent, she incorporates her heritage and cultural background into her artworks to reveal the beauty and dynamism of Nigerian culture to new audiences. Each artwork is intent on raising awareness for the African diaspora. Within this, Adedeji's work therefore recognises how this community is often underrepresented in institutions founded upon the exclusion of people based upon race and cultural heritage.
Many of the historical pieces of art feature people from the African diaspora as props or additions but rarely as the main subject of beauty, and through her art she aims to show black beauty in a different light.
Adedeji is using her art to raise money for sickle cell disease, a genetic condition that disproportionately affects people of African and Caribbean descent.
Donation +-
Based on our agreement with the artist, 15% of the pre-VAT price excluding frames will be donated to support the Sickle Cell Society.
Artwork Details +-
Finishing: Artwork will be shipped on a stretched canvas without a frame
Shipping: Delivery duration is 7-10 business days within the UK, 10-15 days across Continental Europe and 15-25 days for the rest of the world. Delivery to some countries will be subjected to additional import VAT and duties to be paid to the courier directly.