Women in Africa and the Diaspora: Art is Adanma
Chidinma Dureke, affectionately called Chi-Chi by those close to her, is a fulltime artist and entrepreneur. She recently graduated from Frostburg State University in 2011, where she completed her BFA in Graphic Design and Painting. With Africa being her main inspiration, Chi-Chi fuses colors, textures, organic shapes, and traditional techniques to create images that are fresh, iconic, expressive and diverse. Chidinma pieces give a glimpse into her perspective of identity and different political, social, and economic issues, while relaying the message of hope for her continent of Africa. She has been compared to that of Picasso and Gauguin respectively by her college professors, and has been featured in many publications including the Washington Post, Essence and the 2013 issue of Hype Hair magazine. Chidinma expresses that the purpose of her work “is to break down cultural barriers and stereotypes. I choose to give African women and children a voice and display the pride and beauty that not only comes from Africa or Black America but from all cultures.”
Rise Africa had the opportunity to speak to the beautiful Chidinma and here’s what she had to say… (read more)
(via devoutfashion)
