NELSON ETOK | Amidst The Ruins

NELSON ETOK | Amidst The Ruins

“Iconcentrate on realism by meticulously capturing tangible details. However, I use my imagination to create the background for my works. I create a chaotic contrast between reality and fantasy.“
– Nelson Etok. Interview for Art Market Magazine. 2024

“My environment feeds into my imaginative landscapes. That’s why you will always see a chaotic juxtaposition of vibrant colors in my paintings, showing how we strive to become who we want, even during chaos.”

Nelson Etok, a talented artist hailing from Akwa Ibom state (South-South geopolitical zone of Nigeria), has captured the hearts of many with his extraordinary artistic prowess. His journey in art began during his formative years and blossomed into a full-fledged passion during his time at the University of Uyo. Graduating with a diploma and a B.Sc. in Fine and Industrial Arts, Nelson’s dedication and skill have been acknowledged through various prestigious awards.
One of his most recognized talents is his exceptional speed painting, a skill that allows him to paint captivating portraits upside-down in just a matter of minutes. Nelson’s distinctive style, crafted through self-discovery, has transformed into a mesmerizing form of entertainment. He perceives painting as a means to materialize his imagination, seamlessly blending reality and the imaginary. Working primarily with acrylic and oil on canvas, Nelson’s creativity knows no boundaries.
More than creating art for enjoyment, Nelson’s ultimate goal is to inspire others and prompt them to tap into the boundless potential of their own imaginations.

In the series “Amidst the Ruins,” Nelson Etok skillfully portrays figures standing with unwavering determination against the backdrop of a dystopian city. The artworks delve into the profound themes of resilience and survival, depicting how individuals exhibit strength and cling to their identity amid overwhelming devastation.
The juxtaposition of the figure’s tranquil countenance and casual attire against the tumultuous background serves to underscore humanity’s ability to endure and acclimate during times of upheaval. Through these compelling pieces, viewers are encouraged to contemplate the enduring presence of hope and the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.

An Exclusive Interview With
NELSON ETOK

“Amidst the Ruins captures a powerful contrast between calm and chaos, depicting a man standing resolutely in front of a dystopian cityscape. Motivated by themes of resilience and survival, this piece explores how individuals find strength and maintain their identity in the face of overwhelming destruction.
The figure’s serene expression and casual attire sharply contrast with the chaotic background, emphasizing humanity’s capacity to endure and adapt in times of crisis. This work invites viewers to reflect on the persistence of hope and the human spirit amidst adversity.” – Nelson Etok

Art Market Magazine: It’s a pleasure to have this interview with you, Nelson. Your artwork’s depth and intricacy are truly captivating, displaying profound philosophical and technical mastery. What motivates and drives your artistic creations? Does a particular event, experience, or emotion ignite your creative process?

NELSON ETOK: My inspiration to create art stems from my deep connection with my imagination. This imaginative realm has always been a powerful tool for processing my emotions and finding solace. Throughout my upbringing, I immersed myself in vivid daydreams, using them to seek joy and comfort during challenging times. Whenever I encounter feelings of melancholy, I instinctively turn to my imagination, conjuring up mental images that reflect the emotions I aspire to feel or the places I wish to exist in. This innate ability to mold my emotions through the realm of fantasy has been an integral part of my life’s journey.
Rather than being sparked by a specific event, this connection with my imagination has been a continuous and evolving experience. It has evolved into an escape and a wellspring of delight. My art is a fusion of these daydreams with reality. The emotions conveyed in my work reflect my personal odyssey in reconciling the real world with the happiness that I envision in my imaginary realm.

Art Market Magazine: Is your artistic style or the themes you explore influenced by cultural or personal factors?

NELSON ETOK: The rich tapestry of my upbringing in Nigeria has profoundly impacted my artistic expression. The dynamic interplay between the country’s deep-rooted traditions and its embrace of modernity, alongside the pulsating energy and diverse landscapes, serves as a wellspring of inspiration for my art. My creative vision is a fusion of realism and fantasy, reflecting my propensity to seek refuge in the realms of imagination. My works encapsulate tangible, intricate moments juxtaposed against ethereal, dreamlike backdrops. Rooted in my cultural heritage and personal encounters, my art is a testament to finding beauty in the harmonious coexistence of contradictions.

Art Market Magazine: How has your upbringing in Nigeria shaped how you create art today?

NELSON ETOK: My art is deeply influenced by the rich storytelling tradition in Nigerian culture. Each of my paintings weaves a narrative, much like the tales passed down through generations in Nigeria, with intricate layers of meaning embedded in every symbol and detail.
Living in Nigeria, where time seems to move at its own unique pace, has prompted me to contemplate transitions and introspection. The country’s vibrant energy, complex history, and harmonious coexistence of diverse elements have inspired me to seek beauty in contrasts and embrace change. My art reflects this, capturing moments of tranquility amidst the ceaseless rhythm of life.

Art Market Magazine: What is the philosophical idea behind your paintings?

NELSON ETOK:  In my art, I delve into the fascinating intersection of reality and imagination, as well as themes of personal growth and the passage of time. Through a blend of realistic details and fantastical elements, I seek to explore the profound influence of dreams and memories on our perception of the world. My creations reflect a deeply personal journey of self-discovery and aim to demonstrate how the power of imagination can enrich and redefine our experiences.
I hope viewers feel a sense of wonder and curiosity when they see my work. I want them to explore the blend of reality and imagination and reflect on their dreams and emotions. Ultimately, I want to show how imagination can enrich our lives and offer new perspectives on ourselves and the world. 

Art Market Magazine: Why do you choose the specific materials you work with (e.g., acrylic,  oils, found objects)? How do these materials enhance or contribute to your artwork’s overall meaning and impact? What can you tell us about the technique?

NELSON ETOK:  I prefer using acrylics and oils in my artwork. Oils provide versatility and depth, allowing me to capture intricate details realistically while creating textured and vibrant backgrounds for my imaginative elements. Additionally, I use acrylics for the initial background layer as I find working on a surface with some color more appealing than a plain white canvas.
Texture and layering play a crucial role in my art. They add depth and complexity, allowing me to create a rich interplay of color. By building ticker layers, I can create a sense of dimension and intricacy that enhances the visual narrative. 

Art Market Magazine: What can you tell us about the workflow? How do you approach the creation process? Do you plan your work in advance, or do you work spontaneously? 

NELSON ETOK: My approach to creating art is planning and spontaneity. I often start with a clear vision or concept and then pick a model that best interprets the idea. My imaginary background depends on my model’s looks and feels; this flexibility lets me adapt and evolve the piece as I work, blending my initial ideas with unexpected discoveries and inspirations. 

Art Market Magazine: How has your artistic style evolved over time? Have there been any significant changes in your technique or themes since you first started? 

NELSON ETOK: My artistic style has evolved significantly over the years. Initially, I focused more on performing art, but I found it intriguing because not many artists do it. I often travel interstate to create art content about trends, do live shows, and paint celebrities. Performing art gave me room to explore my innermost abilities and create anything I imagined. Whenever I perform visual art, it integrates my personal transformation. 
Technically, I paint with anything while performing, and I enjoy doing it fully upside-down to keep my viewers guessing the emotional depth of my pieces.

Art Market Magazine: How do you feel your work represents your personal journey or evolution as an individual and artist? 

NELSON ETOK: My work reflects my personal journey and evolution by capturing both my growth as an individual and my development as an artist. My paintings mirror my inner experiences and the way my imagination has shaped my perspective. Each piece represents a step in my exploration of self and artistic expression, showing how my understanding of the world and my creative process have evolved over time. 

Art Market Magazine: What does creating art mean to you personally? Is it a form of meditation, expression, or something else? Do you see your art as a way of connecting with others?

NELSON ETOK: Creating art is a deeply personal and multifaceted experience. It serves as both a form of meditation and a means of expression. It allows me to explore and understand my inner world, channeling my thoughts and emotions into tangible forms. Through art, I find a sense of fulfillment and clarity, a way to communicate my unique perspective and connect with others profoundly. It’s a way to process experiences, dreams, and memories, making sense of them through the creative process. My work bridges my internal landscape and the external world, fostering a dialogue with others who may find their own reflections and meanings within it. This connection helps create a shared space where personal experiences and universal themes intersect. 

Art Market Magazine: I am curious about the direction your art is taking in the future. Are there any new themes or paths you look forward to exploring?

NELSON ETOK: I am excited about pushing the boundaries of my work by incorporating interactive elements that encourage viewers to participate and engage. This new direction will enable me to delve deeper into integrating real-life and fantastical elements, broadening the scope of my artistic expression.
I hope my work inspires others to explore and embrace the viewers’ imagination and emotions. By blending realism with fantasy, I encourage viewers to reflect on their personal experiences and dreams. I  want my art to contribute to broader conversations about the power of imagination and its role in enriching our lives.

See the full article in the GOLD LIST Special Edition #8

Nelson Etok’ art is represented by Rodney Asikhia | asikhiarodney@gmail.com | @rodneyasikhia

Website: artsy.net/artist/nelson-etok
Instagram: @artofnelsonetok_
Facebook: /niecally