MOSHOPEFOLUWA "MOSHO" OLAGUNJU

ARTIST RESIDENCY

JUST IMAGINE RESIDENCY: EAST ORANGE, NJ

Peel back the layers of Moshopefoluwa "Mosho" Olagunju’s work to explore themes of identity, power dynamics and unconventional representations of the body. Mosho employs mixed media collaging techniques on canvas, inviting viewers to dive into a range of emotions and perspectives.

Figures appear in varied setting and landscapes as the artist uses recurring motifs and symbols to develop his ideas across multiple canvases. Hanging placement is extremely important to their meaning. “I am fascinated by the storytelling and interpretative possibilities within each piece and across the series as a whole. In this process, my role as the artist extends beyond creation to include the curation of the artwork.”

Mosho works with a mix of materials, including dried organic materials, paper, gesso and paint. In the residency studio he leaned intoLiquitex Clear Gesso. “It’s a nice way to seal raw canvas, gives good tooth to pick up the paint well and allows me to have under washes of color.” He also uses clear gesso to seal organic matter and crinkled paper before overpainting to build up surface tactility.

“I like to exhaust an idea, so I feel it’s a comfortable resolution. My advice for other artists? Find a community, talk, engage and don’t isolate yourself, even if that feels most natural.”

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