Abuk is a Toronto based artist who primarily works with oil and acrylic paints to convey intimate portraits, and abstract work with figurative elements. She graduated from OCAD’s Drawing and Painting program in 2021 and she has dedicated her craft to explore themes of identity, representation, and culture. She explores the usage of color as a tool to withdraw emotional honesty and connect with people. The intention of her artwork is to create dialogue and invite viewers to dissect the meaning(s).

ARTIST’S STATEMENT

My art practice is about representation, identity and integrating some elements of culture. With every artwork, I want to emphasize the experience as a black individual. My process is organic and free flowing, it reveals a sense of choreography between the medium and the canvas. I'm attracted to vibrant colors and shades that connect to my experiences, thoughts and feelings inspiring the concept of the artwork. By pulling ideas from my imagination and personal experiences, I create a combination of portraiture and abstract paintings with oil and acrylic paint. The imagery within my art allows viewers to conceptualize their own understanding of the world while perpetuating curiosity about the true meaning. This approach gives me the opportunity to understand myself while providing a visual and informative experience for others.