Mitochondria Gallery pleased to present “The Possibilities of Becoming,” the second solo exhibition by Kenyan visual artist Nedia Were (b. 1989) in Houston Texas.
The General. Oil on Canvas. 40 x 52 in. 2023.
This body of work presented is centered around some of his observations on the intersection of class and masculinity, viewed from the unequal distribution of odds in life. Nedia is focused on the hierarchical structure and disparities of power that has persisted over time. He examines the perceived distinctions of class relationships in his society, and the efforts to elevate, or sustain hierarchy in social class.
Nedia is exploring a more expressive application of oil paint to depict his subjects, it is a new series that builds on his previous “Mumwamu series,” as the richness in the skin tone of his subjects is still present. Nedia Were implements dress code as an anchor to convey the social status of the male subjects presented. There is a recurring theme of leadership and mortality across this exhibition. Nedia focuses on three stages of masculinity that capture the subjects presented. The first stage revolves around self-betterment, attaining and implementing skills that can potentially elevate one’s status in society. The second stage begins when the individual is in a position of elevated societal status and influence. The third stage is the battle and acceptance of mortality.
Nedia Were's works have been presented at institutions and museums, the most recent in 2022 at the Wall House Museum in St. Barthelemy. His works are also represented at the New Museum Berlin, Germany, and the Nairobi National Museum of Kenya. He was listed as the second most followed emerging artist on Artsy for 2022. Nedia is scheduled to participate in the XIV Florence Biennale, Italy later in the fall.
Works by Nedia Were are part of prestigious private collections across the globe such as the Tim Tan Collection (Manila, Philippines), Lester Marks Collection (Houston, Texas), Elliot Perry Collection (Tennessee, U.S.A), The Gutierrez Collection (Raleigh, North Carolina), Underdog Collection (Italy), Ebert W. Collection (Munich, Germany), Rehman Collection (Dubai, U.A.E), G. Shannon Collection (Houston, TX) and Casauccello Collection (Manila, Philippines).
For an exhibition preview, please contact us at [email protected]
Opening Reception: September 23rd, 2023 7pm-9 pm.
Public Viewing: September 23rd to October 14th.
Address: 2220 Commerce Street #D, Houston, Texas. 77002
Phone: +1.832.271.0193
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