Gerry Nnubia is a largely experimental artist who strives to develo unconventional possibilities in visual creativity to document and inform his audiences about the occurrences in his environment and in a global society. Nnubia offers critical possibilities for painting, and explores the tensions between form and formlessness vital to the tenets of modernism with his “acrylic flow”. Nnubia’s technique involves the skillful manipulation of his medium to a liquid viscous flow often assimilating accidental occurrences and temperature adjustments, depending on what effect is sought.
How has your practice changed over time?
As an experimentalist, my practice keeps changing. When I left school 3 decades ago, I did the conventional but few years after, I found fascination in experimenting with any available materials (media) and techniques to develop new art styles that define my identity.
Would you say the current global situation of uncertainty due to COVID-19 is affecting and reflecting in your recent works?
The current global situation of uncertainty due to COVID-19 is certainly affecting every sphere of human life. Economies are globally affected and art is deeply tied to the economy. When the whole world is shut down and humanity apprehensive about the future, art is not spared. About COVID -19 reflecting on my work, I think it is still too early. The experience is only beginning to unfold. Surely, at the appropriate time, because my art is prone to documenting global events, human endeavours etc.
Welcome to the Future, 2019
What inspires your art?
Everything. Ranging from the Environment, Human Endeavours (Past and Present), Personal Experience, especially my dreams and aspirations even particularly, the music I play, etc.
What piece of your artwork would you like to be remembered for?
All. Because they all have my ENIGMATIC SPIRIT hovered and poured upon them. Though, there are some series of my mixed - media flowers titled: "COEXISTENCE ". These series address the beauty of love for one another especially between our leaders and the people which, as is lacking in the world today is the root of corruption, tribalism, nepotism, negligence etc.
All! Like I pointed out earlier, they all are off shoots of my creative spirit.
Do you agree with the saying that art has to be disturbing, art has to ask a question, art has to predict the future?
I believe art should do all the above and even more...
How do you go about transforming an idea into a physical piece?
As an Experimentalist, I do a lot of conceptualizing which may last even for years; brainstorming to marry all elements and principles of design to the experimental material. Once done, rendition may just take a few hours or days.
How does your work comment on current or political issues
It depends on how I perceive the issues. Though when issues are current, I like to patiently wait to see its end to enable me a broader view of portrayal and documentation.
Celebration of Love, 2019
Describe a real-life situation that inspired you?
In my life, I have experienced a lot but none can compare with my global experience and encounter with real human beings who have expressed that rare quality of relating to all humans as one.
Would you rather be rich or famous?
Both coming from God's blessings of my strives in life will be highly appreciated.
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