A BREAK IN CONTINUITY : In Conversation with Daniel Atenyi
The artwork series in focus is characterized by drawings created using charcoal powder and coffee wash. On closer reflection, the materials produce an interesting contrast. While the use of the charcoal seemingly exudes intentionality and strives for control, the coffee on the other hand behaves with a kind of heedlessness and hazy blankness. It is as if, it simply exists with neither ambition nor direction. The fragility and purity of white paper as a surface, visa vie its capacity to hold and reflect heavy sentiments, makes for an equally compelling contradistinction. Daniel Atenyi, Strange Reminders, 2024, Charcoal and Coffee Wash on Paper, 119x89cm, Courtesy of Afriart Gallery Daniel Atenyi’s practice navigates the fleetingness of the now within the grand scheme of things. This can be interpreted as the thought that so much is happening in this very moment, which will cease to exist in the next. There is so much happening in our worlds and so much more in our minds, to the point ...
