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

As a longtime buyer of prints and editions I am extremely impressed with my first Avant Arte experience. The attention to quality, detail, packaging and the customer experience are among the best Ive seen.
Review of Untitled
Overall, a very satisfying and educational experience! I greatly appreciate the various updates during the production and shipping processes. Thank you very much.
Review of Actual Size
Excellent experience overall. Thank you for an easy transaction.
Review of Everyone is a dragon
Great experience. I appreciate the great care with which the piece was packaged and shipped as well.
Review of Actual Size
Excellent service from Avant Arte! Thank you!
Review of Inner Love
Love, love, love this piece of amazing work...from the craftmanship, brilliance of the colors, to the title it is fire! My new fave...among many other favorites! The treatment my framer gave it is delicious and aww inspiring...thanks Avant Arte!
Review of In Search For Light
I think the experience has been brilliant from start to finish
Review of HOPE (251-375)
very good quality of the print and very professional service 👍
Review of Inner Love

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