Ilidio Candja, until October 3, 2015 in Gallery of African Art London
Puma # 1, 2014.
About:
In his paintings, Ilidio Candja draws the audience into a personal exploration of his playful and dynamic energy. Executed in a style resonant with Abstract Expressionism and Action painting, his works are characterised by spontaneous and confident brush strokes. And inspired by his heritage, the riot of colours, personal symbols and African textile prints all serve to infuse his canvases with vibrancy.(text Gallery of African Art London)
Puma # 2, 2014.
Lucro, 2013.
Greemer, 2014.
The painted collages by Mozambican artist Ilidio Candja Candja are a compelling combination of cultural reflection and personal symbology. From abstracted backgrounds arise restless figures that belong to the artist’s own constructed mythology. Impulsive and aggressive brushstrokes that reference action painting come together to create blurred ghosts, demonic entities, arachnids, and skeletons. An enigmatic tension arises in the work with the layering of more subtle geometrical and mathematical objects, photographs, and decorative elements taken from traditional African art and textiles. Candja Candja’s art is a contemplation about African culture combined with a pursuit of exploring his own restless spirit.(Text Unix Gallery)
Maba Funck, 2013.