Born in 1999, Ugandan artist Emmie Nume has established a reputation for his emotionally charged portraits that embody the essence of feeling through free and spontaneous expression. He incorporates spontaneous abstraction and figurative elements in his practice. In creating his works, Nume uses mediums such as charcoal, pastels, acrylics, and collage on both canvas and paper
In 2021, Nume participated in an artist-in-residence program at Silhouette Projects under Afriart Gallery, which proved to be a pivotal moment in his artistic journey. This residency allowed him to develop a unique visual language that expresses his personal vision.
In his practice, Nume grapples with the idea that art mirrors life in its reflection of the continuity of decision making. It is important to note that not all decisions are made through a conscious process, otherwise an entire lifetime will be spent contemplating and over-thinking our decisions. Nume’s artistic process is guided by his intuition, where he allows his subconscious to take the lead and guide his decisions. He sees art-making as an embodied practice that merges the physical, mental, and emotional realms, giving form to emotions and allowing his heart and gut to lead the way.
For Nume, art serves as a form of therapy, providing an outlet for his thoughts and freeing him from the “attacks” of his conscious mind. The process is both healing and liberating, allowing him to explore his inner self and pursue freedom.
Nume’s exhibition ‘When Thoughts Attack Us’ showcases hid finished pieces, works-in-progress, and sketches, emphasizing the importance of the process in his work. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the installation piece “When Thoughts Attack Us” by picking up materials and adding their own touch.
Emmie Nume’s practice is a reflection of his personal journey of self-discovery, healing, and liberation, offering a powerful narrative that invites the audience to connect with their emotions and intuition. Through his art, Nume invites the audience to reflect on their own experiences and to explore the depths of their subconscious.
