Diovadiova Chrome by Kip Omolade

You can spend ages trying to figure out whether Kip Omolade’s oil paintings are one-dimensional or whether they actually protrude off the canvas. Each one focuses on an enormous mask inspired by ancient African sculptures such as the bronze heads of Ife which speaks to Kip’s Yoruba heritage. But each mask is brought to life through a unique and intentional process that starts with taking a real cast of a real face and reworking it to a chrome finish. Kip then creates his oil on canvas by referencing the finished mold. The concept and process contribute to the artistic uniqueness that links ancient art to modern individuals.

Just as you’re starting to wrap your head around the hyper-realism of each chrome cast on the canvas, you notice that each mask is actually a reflection! A mirror! A world of rolling landscapes merging with skies in the horizon is reflected in one mirror mask. Another reflects a multitude of famous ancient African sculptures in an undeniable celebration of African creativity. Yet another reflects a self-portrait in a backdrop of the elaborate Times Square in New York.

Each chrome mask from the African-American artist is a deceptively complex genius work of art. See some of our favourites here.

See more from the African-American painter via his website and Instagram.

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