West Africa

The Symbolism of the Eye in the Work of King Ereso

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King Ereso transforms the eye into a powerful leitmotif, using it as a symbolic gateway to the deepest aspects of the human experience.

The familiar saying, ‘the eyes are the windows to the soul,’ resonates in his work, where the eye becomes a lens through which he explores the complexities of the human journey and the discovery of inner strength. A distinctive feature of Ereso’s art is the “eye of hope,” a circular patch covering the eye of his subjects. This symbol embodies introspection and self-awareness, inviting viewers on a journey of personal discovery.

Ereso further enhances this exploration by incorporating fabrics and materials that create figurative images and tells stories, narrating his life, experiences, and the rich tapestry of the African culture. His unique blend of abstract expressionism and Afrocentric iconography mark out his distinctive style, characterized by bold brushstrokes and vibrant colours that pulse with energy.

Thus, Ereso’s Afro-Futurist art transcend visual aesthetics, serving as a medium for self-reflection, connection with nature, transformation and the realization of personal empowerment.

In King Ereso’s art, the eye is more than a recurring motif; it is a symbol of introspection and empowerment. The “eye of hope” invites viewers to look beyond the surface and engage with the deeper narrative woven into each piece.

Through this symbolic use of the eye, Ereso bridges the external and internal dimensions of his subjects, offering a profound exploration of the human experience, and the cultural richness that defines his work.

A Sculpture by King Ereso (Image Courtesy of the Artist).

In Ereso’s work, the eye is not merely a physical organ, but a gateway to the soul’s most intimate stories, emotions, and experiences.

For Ereso, the eye represents not only the window to the soul but also the lens through which we view the world. His works often feature eyes that seem to gaze out from the canvas, as if inviting the viewer to look deeper, to explore the innermost recesses of their own consciousness. Through the eyes, Ereso gives his art an essence and a soul, like a creator breathing life to his creations.

Ereso’s paintings are currently on display at the Nomadic Art Gallery as part of the thought-provoking exhibition “Should I Go, Should I Stay?”.

This exhibition brings together a diverse range of artists, each exploring the tensions between movement and stasis, migration and belonging. Within this framework, Ereso’s paintings resonate powerfully, inviting viewers to reflect on their own journeys and the choices they’ve made along the way.

King Ereso is also part of the Spaghetti People lineup for Spaghetti Boost, a benefit corporation dedicated to ethically advancing emerging contemporary artists. This platform provides both national and international exposure through a merit-based selection process, fostering a diverse and ethical artistic community. Through this, King Ereso expands his artistic impact and contributes to a value-driven community that also intersects with cultural and environmental dialogues.

“Relief 4” by King Ereso (Image Courtesy of the Artist).

As we gaze upon Ereso’s art, we are met with a multitude of eyes, each one a reflection of our own unique perspective. We are reminded that art is not just a reflection of the artist’s inner world but also a mirror held up to our own. In the end, it is up to us to interpret the symbolism and weave our own story into the tapestry of King Ereso’s art.

Author

Gloria Adegboye is a creative writer and mindfulness coach. She has a law background and is the founder of Abike's Essence, a scented candle business based in Lagos, Nigeria. She is a writer for Art Network Africa.

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