Mitochondria Gallery is pleased to announce "Threads of Time," the North American debut solo exhibition by Ugandan visual artist Brian Kansiime Lister, featuring figurative paintings of women in contemplation.
Layers of Identity. Oil on Canvas. 47 x 39 in. 2024.
Throughout this body of work, Kansiime- Lister portrays his subjects and their surroundings in detail with arresting compositions as he continues to build upon the use of portraiture to reclaim the depiction of Black women in times past. The visual language employed by Kansiime in this work continues to confront the myth of absence, and exclusion of Blackness in periods of history.
This work is an expansion of his "Timeless Echoes" series, where he bridges digital and traditional methods of visual art. Utilizing a camera, Kansiime-Lister captures the essence of his muses, who serve as the focal point of his compositions. He then meticulously scours the realms of ancient art, sourcing elements such as sculptures and objects that resonate with the themes of heritage and legacy. Through digital alchemy, he carefully weaves these ancient elements into the compositions, blending them harmoniously with the contemporary figures. This intentional fusion of times past and present is a central tenet of "Threads of Time," representing the enduring impact of history on the contemporary narrative.
The deliberate smoothness of his figures and blurs of his artistry serves a dual purpose: they symbolize the fluidity of time, allowing for a seamless merging of eras, while also creating a tactile depth that draws viewers deeper into the narrative. Utilizing a blend of oil and acrylic paints on canvas, and at times solely oil paint, he crafts each piece with meticulous detail and reverence for the stories they convey.
"Threads of Time," is not merely a collection of paintings; it is a visual symphony that celebrates the interconnectedness of humanity and the enduring power of art. It is an intentional homage to the resilience and beauty of Black women, honoring their ability to transcend temporal constraints and leave an indelible mark on history. Through this intentional process, Brian Kansiime Lister endeavors to create art that resonates with the soul, inviting reflection on the timeless echoes that shape our world.
For exhibition preview, please contact us at [email protected]
Opening Reception: Saturday, April 13th, 2024. 7pm - 9 pm.
Public Viewing: April 13th to May 4th. 2024.
Address: 2220 Commerce Street #D, Houston, Texas. 77002
Phone: +1.832.271.0193
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