Stephen Aragabada's previous work, Secrets, was shown in the Rodney episode of the Netflix hit series Supacell and stands out distinctly in both style and technique. He also caught the attention of American celebrity collector, Alicia Keys who described his work as “Gorgeous”. Since the acclaim, Aragbada has racked up teeming interest, bringing an excitement that anticipates the evolution of his distinct representation of Blackness in contemporary Africa.
Nigerian artist Stephen Aragbada last painting, a figure sitting with a blend of nonchalance and introspection titled "The Life Code". Dressed in a sharply tailored blazer with maroon trim, offset against a crisp white shirt, the subject radiates both confidence and ease.
The texture of the painting, defined by heavy brushwork and muted purples, grays, and soft greens, creates an atmospheric and moody setting. The delicate interplay of light and shadow accentuates the figure’s serene posture and quiet demeanor.
The artist arranges the scene with attention to balance and narrative. The figure’s pose—a casual lean with hands resting naturally—evokes a subtle intimacy, as though we’ve caught the subject deep in thought or mid-repose. The expression is peaceful, with closed eyes that might suggest sleep, meditation, or a break from the world’s chaos. The tilted pink cap, positioned elegantly on the subject’s head, provides a bold focal point that draws the viewer's eye.
Stephen Aragbada, The Life Code, detail
To the left, a lush green plant in a neutral-toned pot contrasts with the figure’s warm clothing tones. Behind the figure, textured walls and abstract brushstrokes evoke an urban interior or studio space, adding to the modern ambiance.
A book labeled "The Life Code" lays on a small round table. Its placement is intentional and thought-provoking. Is this book a source of guidance or knowledge? Does it symbolize a search for answers, a key to life’s mysteries, or a literal pause for enlightenment? The bold red and white text on the dark cover emphasizes its significance as more than just a prop but as a thematic element in the work.
At its core, this painting speaks to themes of pause, reflection, and self-awareness. The subject's positioning and closed eyes suggest an escape from the pressures of daily life. Whether they’re reflecting on past experiences, finding solace in stillness, or resting after deep contemplation, there’s an air of peace and quiet authority about them.
The artist seems to celebrate the simple moments of solitude—moments often lost in today’s fast-paced, noisy world. The inclusion of The Life Code reminds viewers of the ongoing human search for meaning and purpose.
This painting invites viewers to pause, much like its subject. Through thoughtful composition, rich texture, and a skillful balance of realism and abstraction, the artist creates a scene that resonates with quiet power. It captures the beauty of introspection and highlights the importance of finding rest.
Anna Melnykova, "Palace of Labor (palats praci), architector I. Pretro, 1916", shot with analog Canon camera, 35 mm Fuji film in March 2022.
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