Artist Talk with Dometo Esse

Exhibition Statement

This exhibition hopes to be the voice of the average woman going through the COVID-19 pandemic by speaking to the ways she strives to conquer invisibility behind a common mask. I believe that 100 years from now much will be discussed about how fashion changed to accommodate CDC regulations and guidelines in the years 2020-2021. Women and fashion give so much flair and color to history, and art will play a central role in illustrating their place and significance during a period as remarkable as this. How did a young woman keep up her appearance during the pandemic? How was it possible for a woman to feel beautiful behind a mandatory mask? This exhibition answers these questions in vivid, saturated colors and shapes for future generations to unfold.

Bio

Dometo Esse, better known as Dede Esse, is a self-taught artist who learned many different painting techniques by watching hours of YouTube videos. Born in a small village in the West African country of Togo, her work finds inspiration in the rich culture she was born into, which can be seen through her technique of combining abstract and modern styles using bold, bright colors. To Dede, there is so much beauty lying dormant in each of us that it would be impossible to express it within just one lifetime. The purpose of her work is to inspire the viewer to come to this same awareness and discover the beauty and love they have been looking for all along.