Gathering, 2016

Ima Amu  

Ima was born in Ukehe, Nigeria in West Africa. At a very young age he was always constantly drawing on the sand with sticks excitedly.  At that time, he knew that he wanted to be an artist. He loved drawing and enjoyed a good experience with colours during his time at the secondary school. He was very motivated, and he decided to proceed to read art amidst many challenges from his parents then. They wanted him to become a lawyer instead, but he refused because of his love with colours and drawings.

He went to the University of Benin, Benin-city, Nigeria, where he studied painting and art history. He was one of the best in his class.

After his graduation in 1995, he worked until 1999 as the curator and manager at the famous, Didi Museum in Lagos, Nigeria. During that period, he curated and organised different exhibitions and art related symposia. Further to his credit, he also had contracts with several banks and companies, where he did beautified their offices with his paintings. Besides, he has won many prices in Nigeria during his time as a curator.

Until now he has participated in many art exhibitions throughout Nigeria and here in The Netherlands. 

His paintings usually depict the everyday life of the people in Nigeria and broadly, in Africa. He also tries in his works to relate his early life experiences which are the major storylines and subject matter of his paintings. 

In addition, he sees his paintings as his voice to expressing and depicting what is going on in that continent, Africa. Among others, the women play some subjective roles which he mostly uses  to express this situation.

 Regretably and sadly on a bigger scale, the women carry the heaviest socio-cultural burden and demands. Yes, a burden of neglect, marginalization and inequality that trail their life in every sector of human activities  which today, needs a global attention.

His paintings are rendered majorly on oil, acrylic colours and charcoal. Lastly and worthy to mention is that often, he combines these medium to achieve his desired mixed media technique.

Each piece by Ima Amu is a distinct journey into the heart of Africa, blending rich cultural narratives with vivid portrayals of contemporary life. Crafted with a bright palette and diverse techniques, his art is not just aesthetically pleasing, it is also a mirror reflecting socio-political realities. Imbued with symbolisms and subtle messages, his work is especially renowned for highlighting the plight and resilience of African women. By owning an Ima Amu piece, you're not just adding to your art collection; you're becoming part of a compelling dialogue on African life, history, and the enduring quest for equality.