Aboudia

Aboudia is known for his layered, energetic paintings that combine innocence and spontaneity with the portrayal of a dark interior world. His recent work continues to grapple with the hardships of daily life and social inequalities in Ivorian society, referencing characters from his direct neighborhood and contemporary Nouchi culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 05 March 2024
Publisher: Mondadori Electa

Aboudia, a renowned artist born in 1983, finds inspiration in the vibrant street culture of his hometown, Abidjan, located in the Ivory Coast. His artistic prowess is evident in his highly layered and intensely energetic paintings, which seamlessly blend a childlike innocence and spontaneity with the portrayal of a dark and introspective inner world. Since the outbreak of the Ivorian civil wars (2004-2011), his urban landscapes have been haunted by the trauma of armed soldiers, ominous skulls, and a populace confined by danger. However, his recent work remains steadfast in addressing the hardships of daily life and the deep-rooted social inequalities that persist within Ivorian society.

In his artistic creations, Aboudia pays homage to the characters and traditions of his immediate neighborhood, as well as the rich tapestry of contemporary Nouchi culture and language. Through his intricate imagery, he vividly illustrates the vitality and resilience of the people of Abidjan. Aboudia's paintings are a captivating blend of references, drawing inspiration from traditional arts and spirituality while also incorporating images from contemporary West African culture. With an immense variety of details coming in and out of focus, often requiring multiple viewings to fully appreciate, his paintings are a testament to his artistic mastery and his ability to create a visually rich and multi-layered narrative.

Dimension: 310 x 239 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788891838285