Unwana Efiong is a versatile freelance artist with a lifelong passion for creativity. Since the age of 8, she has been immersed in the world of art, exploring various mediums and styles to express her vision. Her artistic journey took a significant leap in 2008 when she won the first position in the Graphics category and overall first position in the National Gallery of Art competition in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, during her senior secondary school years.
Self-taught or art school?
I have a blend of experiences. While I initially delved into art on my own, I also took Art electives during secondary school. I first started experimenting with drawing at the age of 5, but it wasn’t until I was 8 that my drawings began to take shape. Although I began studying Fine Art at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria in 2010, I didn’t finish my degree as I moved abroad to pursue Architecture. Seeking to refine my portrait skills, I enrolled in advanced art lessons at Pencils ‘n’ Brushes Artworks in 2016.
How would you describe your style?
I would describe my style as eclectic and spontaneous. I enjoy experimenting with various techniques and mediums, including graphite, charcoal, pen, and mixed media. My approach to art is characterised by a sense of freedom and improvisation, allowing me to explore different shading styles like scribbling, blurring, and hatching. Overall, my style is dynamic and ever-evolving, reflecting my diverse influences and creative journey. Although I am more of a generalist in art, I work more with the blurring technique when working on portraits. Sometimes, I work with scribbles. When I am painting, I love to use different raw colours and splash paint most times as I like to portray a happy atmosphere in my paintings.
Can you tell us about your artistic process?
Sure! My artistic process is quite spontaneous and fluid. I often start with a vague idea or feeling and let it evolve naturally as I work. Sometimes, I begin with a rough sketch to capture the basic composition, but other times, I dive straight into the canvas or paper without any preconceived notions. I enjoy experimenting with different mediums, including graphite, charcoal, pen, and mixed media, as well as digital tools. Throughout the process, I embrace spontaneity and allow myself to explore various techniques and styles, such as scribbling, blurring, and hatching, until I feel satisfied with the outcome. Ultimately, my goal is to create art that resonates with others on an emotional level and sparks their imagination.
Is narrative important in your work?
Yes, narrative plays a significant role in my work as an artist. While I appreciate abstract and non-representational art, I often find myself drawn to storytelling and conveying messages through visual imagery. Each piece I create tells a story, whether it’s inspired by personal experiences, social issues, or simply my interpretation of the world around me. I believe that narratives add depth and meaning to art, inviting viewers to engage with the work on a deeper level and encouraging them to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives. In this way, storytelling becomes an integral part of my artistic process, guiding the direction of my work and shaping its impact on the audience.
Who are your favourite artists and why?
I draw inspiration from a diverse array of artists, each contributing to my artistic journey in unique ways. One of my favourite artists is Scott Burdick. His mastery of figurative painting and ability to capture emotion and atmosphere in his works deeply resonates with me. I admire his skillful use of light and colour to create compelling narratives that evoke a strong emotional response from viewers. I also admire Vincent van Gogh, whose bold use of colour and expressive brushwork captivates me, evoking a sense of raw emotion and intensity in his paintings. Additionally, I find inspiration in the works of other artists across various genres and movements, as each one offers something valuable to learn and appreciate. These artists inspire me to push the boundaries of my own creativity, encouraging me to explore new techniques, themes, and concepts in my art.
Who or what inspires your art?
Good photography mostly inspires me. As much as I am an artist, I struggle a bit with imaginative drawing. So when I want to paint, I listen to my mood at the moment, find good images online that match my mood, and then tweak them however I want to. Additionally, I draw inspiration from everyday experiences, human emotions, and cultural diversity, each offering a unique perspective to explore through my art. The challenges and triumphs of my own life journey also play a significant role in shaping my creative process, infusing my work with authenticity and depth. Overall, my art is inspired by a deep connection to the world around me and a desire to express the beauty and complexity of the human experience.
Where’s your studio and what’s it like?
My studio is wherever I find myself immersed in my creative process, which often happens to be the comfort of my own home. While I don’t have a dedicated studio space, I’ve transformed a cosy corner or my kitchen table into my artistic sanctuary. Surrounded by familiar sights and sounds, I feel a sense of ease and freedom to explore my ideas without any constraints. Whether it’s sketching in the living room or painting in the kitchen, I find inspiration in the simple joys of creating art in the comfort of my home.
Do you have any studio rituals?
I don’t have any specific studio rituals, but I do have certain habits that help me get into the right mindset for creating art. Before I begin a new piece, I like to take a moment to clear my mind and focus on the task at hand. Sometimes, I’ll put on some soft music or light a candle to create a calming atmosphere. I also find that having a glass of juice nearby can help me relax and feel more comfortable as I work. Ultimately, my studio rituals are all about creating a peaceful and conducive environment where I can let my creativity flow freely.
What are you working on currently?
I’m currently working on a series of mixed media pieces inspired by nature and the human experience. I’m experimenting with different techniques and materials to bring my ideas to life, exploring themes of growth, resilience, and connection. Each piece in the series is a reflection of my ongoing journey as an artist and a celebration of the beauty and complexity of the world around us.
Where can we buy your art?
You can purchase my art directly from me through my social media channels. I also participate in local art exhibitions and galleries where my work may be available for sale. Feel free to reach out to me for inquiries about purchasing or commissioning artwork.
