Joseph Aina

In my mind, I am a psychologist conducting an inquiry into the psyche of a man of Nigerian blood raised on British soil. I associate closely with this man, though depict him from a distance so his representation might provide some valuable precedence for men of similar circumstances. Each painting is a page within a biography of the black man displaying past transgressions, current psychology, and then reaches towards predictions for his future within western civilisation.

What I offer is a commentary on the ills of popular culture and ideas of race. The use of multiple layers of paint and paper helps establish a history and energy within the painting. Although many of these layers remain unseen, they are in place to create a street wall ambiance so as to place my audience on the cold streets of London. The irony of my ‘Street Art’ on a canvas further helps display a psychological tension between looking from a position of privilege that strides to conflict with stereotypical representations of blackness.

With this understanding, I often visually reference prominent black artists to ensure my work builds onto existing narratives. Thus, I draw freehand with chalks and oil pastel treating my canvas like a sketchbook to ensure my works remain honest, direct, and personal. I am aware that my perspective is unique, so my work remains naked. To signal this, I leave elements of the first layer visible for the audience to connect with and follow the process of making.