Joseph Aina
Overview
“In my mind, I am a psychologist conducting an inquiry into the psyche of a man of Nigerian blood raised on British soil.” - Joseph Aina
Joseph’s work investigates human nature and the way in which it is interwoven into the fabric of society. With a specific interest in contemporary notions of identity and its place within popular culture.
Within Joseph's work, each painting is a page within a biography of a man of Nigerian blood raised on British soil and loosely based on his own experience. His work displays this individual's past transgressions, current psychology, and then reaches towards predictions for his future within western civilisation.
What he offers is a commentary on the ills of popular culture and ideas of race. The use of multiple layers of paint and paper helps establish a history and energy within the painting. Although many of these layers remain unseen, they are in place to create a street wall ambiance so as to place his audience on the cold streets of London. The irony of his ‘Street Art’ on a canvas further helps display a psychological tension between looking from a position of privilege that strides to conflict with stereotypical representations of blackness.
With this understanding, he often visually references prominent black artists to ensure his work builds onto existing narratives. Thus, he draws freehand with chalks and oil pastel treating his canvas like a sketchbook to ensure his works remain honest, direct, and personal. He is aware that his perspective is unique, so his work remains naked. To signal this, he leaves elements of the first layer visible for the audience to connect with and follow the process of making.
Biography
Joseph Aina (b. 1996) is a Nigerian-British Artist living and working in both London and Windsor. Joseph graduated from Painting at the Royal College of Art, having received the Royal College of Art Studentship Bursery. Joseph obtained a BA in Law & Psychology at The University of Kent (2018) and a Graduate Diploma in Fine Art from the RCA (2020).
He is also the recipient of the Eaton Fund and took part in The Changing Room Gallery Residency, London. Joseph’s practice is also extends into music, fashion, and business. He was awarded the entrepreneur of the year award (2016) at the University of Kent for his artist management company JMArt Space. He also recently launched his clothing line ‘JMApparel’ which he is currently growing with the help of the RCA creative band accelerator Program.
Works
