Beautiful people, I hope this little note finds you well and safe.
I’ve always loved to be an occasional hermit and hibernate however, making the conscious decision to do so is obviously different from having no choice at all. The last year has, among many devastating things, stripped us of our freedom of choice. As much as it was and still is scary, confusing and frustrating, I do have to say that I have embraced the moments of deep self reflection resulting from it.
The pandemic has most importantly brought to light a lot of very disturbing realities that aren’t always acknowledged accordingly and actively fought against. We could easily say that systemic racism, sexual and gender based violence, social class inequality, access to proper healthcare, mental health are all among a long list of pandemics of their own. Confronting these constant matters has proven to be quite overwhelming but absolutely necessary for actual change, for we do not grow when we stay inside of our comfort zones, especially if those are in any way to the detriment of others.
I am convinced Covid has played a role in bringing these real, constant issues to the surface again. Also, I am aware of how privileged I am to have my family healthy, by my side and be able to deal with the pandemic while staying safe at home. The lockdowns have forced me to look inwards, making me more grateful everyday for the little things I might have taken for granted in the past, for the people that fill me with love and positive energy and the voice I am getting more confident to use. I believe that we have been provided with the time, the space for important discussions to take place and I hope we take this into serious action, valuing, respecting life and the planet much more once this passes.
As I have previously mentioned, for the past few months (and through the various lockdowns), I haven’t been able to stop thinking about identity, race, gender and the crucial role they play in the world we live in. Hence, the birth of ‘The Identity Talks’. I have always found myself drawn to artists that explore these intricate, important themes, which is why I couldn’t be more excited to host my next #TheIdentityTalks guest, the talented, thoughtful, conceptual visual artist and art photographer, Àsìkò.
‘Àsìkò creates pieces with photography, mixed media and film. His artistry is anchored by emotional experiences as a Nigerian born (and raised) British citizen, who is on a lifelong, cultural and spiritual exploration of a nuanced Yoruba heritage. His work is motivated by a drive for greater self-awareness, authentic creative expression and therefore the development of a visual language that articulates new ways to understand the liberatory possibilities of African diasporic identity.’
I am sure you understand why Àsìkò is not only a perfect guest for this next edition but beyond that, just one of those artists you should know, recognize and cherish for his beautiful contribution to the visual art world.
Join us in conversation this Thursday, February 25th at 5pm GMT / 12pm EST on my IGlive @marielaly
With this I bid you all farewell for now, stay alert, hopeful and grateful, spread that love however you can.
Love and light,
MH.
