ICHIE B

Description

Mary Edoyugbo: ICHIE B, 17.5 x 20.5 inches, POINTILLISM

There was an idea that popped into my mind when I completed this portrait; I imagined framing it, not in the expected rectangular orientation it already had, but finding a way of placing it on a round framework. A framework that would have a meander or Greek fret pattern round the portrait, because the portrait seemed more like a seal, a symbol of leadership and authority… so required some regal twist to it.

Yes, the meander is popularly known due to its presence on the Versace logo, then again, isn’t the logo also a head?! The similarity made me nod within.
In my journey on this portrait’s creation, I felt I became the artwork, and the portrait was the Artist. I learnt a lot, I became more, I stretched myself, I evolved. The process actually sculpted me anew!

In this portrait, I see a balance. Balance of a man who knows logic and sentiments, science and art, humour and seriousness, age and youth, home and abroad. Did I add “science and art”? Oh yes, I did. Surely I did.

I am honoured to have been commissioned for this artwork. This project has schooled me, (in what way? You may ask). The portraits I have created before now had single expressions. This is the first where I have had to fully explore my creative license by infusing different expressions on a portrait.
So, the completed piece feels to me, a certificate . . . Maybe it is mine; maybe I am supposed to refund its payment and retain the artwork (#smiles), for it is a masterpiece!