In a world teeming with stories, there are some that resonate on a deeper level, stories that speak not just through words, but through vibrant strokes and captivating forms. Today, we delve into the artistic tapestry of Gbemi Smart, a talented Nigerian artist whose paintings offer a glimpse into her journey of self-discovery and emotional expression.

News Men recently sat down with Gbemi in Abuja, where she unveiled the captivating world that inspires her art. Gbemi's artistic journey began at the tender age of 13, igniting a passion that has become an inseparable part of her life, despite her impressive academic background. Holding an LLB law degree with honors from the University of Hertfordshire, a postgraduate diploma in international relations from Richmond University, and an LLM in medical law and ethics from the University of Law, Gbemi could have pursued a traditional legal career path. However, the pull of artistic expression proved too strong. "It's not just a hobby," she confesses, "it's a necessity." This inherent drive translates into her captivating oil paintings, a medium she finds both solace and a powerful tool for expression in.

Storytelling Through Canvas:
Gbemi's artistic influences are as diverse as the emotions she portrays on canvas. From the rhythmic flow of music to the evocative imagery of poetry, she draws inspiration from various forms of art, weaving these elements into her unique artistic vision. This eclectic tapestry of influences is evident in her abstract style, where she portrays individuals not in their literal forms, but as captivating expressions of their essence.
One pivotal series in Gbemi's artistic trajectory has been her exploration of self-discovery and a life in totality, which has spanned over two years. This introspective journey delves into the depths of her own being, seeking to express the core of her artistic voice and the message it carries. Through this exploration, Gbemi emphasizes the honesty and authenticity she strives for in each piece, valuing the ability of art to transcend words and convey the complexities of human emotions and experiences.

Honesty and the Canvas:
Gbemi's approach to storytelling in her work is deeply rooted in personal experiences and observations of human emotions and shared experiences. She emphasizes the importance of honesty and truthfulness in her art, believing that "the canvas reflects one's life and that lying to one's work is impossible. "She finds inspiration in everyday life and the human mind, also shared that she is fascinated with existence and finds beauty in humanity, aiming to capture and portray these thoughts authentically in her pieces. This love for storytelling shapes her creative process and drives her to convey meaningful narratives through her work.

The Role of Art:
When asked to share her views on the role of art in our society, the artist said, "Apart from its undeniable economic viability, I think often times art acts as a social binder—bringing people from different cultures together. I also think of art as an element of communication. Can you try to imagine what life would be without art? Cause I really can't fathom. It's prehistoric. From cavemen paintings to the cultural songs we grew up on. Trying to pinpoint every influence art has on a societal level is like counting grains of sand on a beach."
Gbemi emphasizes that art is a way to understand the human existence and convey complex thoughts, aiming to evoke feelings and reactions in viewers. She sees art as a means of storytelling and connecting with others on a deeper level, highlighting the importance of individual voices and unique perspectives in the artistic realm.

Challenges and Inspiration:
The artist faces various challenges in her creative process, particularly in finding the time and mental clarity to dedicate to her work. She emphasizes the importance of investing time in her art and allowing herself the space to immerse in her thoughts and creative flow. "Art cannot be rushed," she acknowledges, "each hour spent on a piece is valuable." Gbemi mentions the struggle of balancing time for creating art with personal reflection and contemplation, highlighting the mental focus required to produce meaningful work.

Finding Inspiration in Heritage:
While Gbemi's decision led her away from a legal career, her academic background in law and international relations is not entirely absent from her artistic pursuits. She finds deep inspiration in her cultural heritage and historical accounts that have shaped the world, which is reflected in the symbolism and narratives embedded within her artwork.
Additionally, the artist touches on the impact of personal experiences, such as the loss of a loved one, on their creative journey. They reflect on how such profound events can shape their perspective on life and influence the stories they tell through their art. The artist recognizes that pain and grief are powerful emotions that can drive artistic expression but also notes how important it is to expand beyond these emotions to explore a wider range of human experiences in their work.

Overall, Gbemi navigates through these challenges by staying true to her storytelling approach, seeking authenticity in her expressions, and aiming to evoke emotional responses from viewers through her art. Her journey is a testament to the power of art as a tool for self-discovery, connection, and the exploration of the shared human experience.