For Muyiwa Akhigbe, an exciting new chapter unfolds as the multidisciplinary creative explores innovative art styles. Muyiwa, a force in the Nigeria audiovisual art space, has once again raised the bar with his latest art style, which he calls Abstract Amateurism.
Abstract Amateurism is a blend of free-form sketching and unfettered expression, adding a new dimension to the Imaginative Realism he is known for. Interestingly, this new style draws inspiration from notable artists, revealing fresh facets of Muyiwa’s artistic identity.
He is exploring this style through his pet project, reimagining the covers of Apple’s Top 100 Albums of all time. This project emerged from a transformative experience that rekindled his childhood sense of wonder and creativity, propelling him to further explore his artistic abilities by blending nostalgia with contemporary artistry.
In this exclusive interview with The Moveee, Muyiwa discusses the evolution of his art style, its elements, and his aspirations. As he continues on this ambitious project, he invites us to explore not only the evolution of his artistic journey but also the profound connection between art and the inner child within us all.
Timileyin Okunlola. Tell me about Muyiwa Akhigbe
Muyiwa Akhigbe. Muyiwà Akhigbe is an audiovisual explorer. He loves pushing the limits of audio and visual art. He’s based in Lagos, Nigeria.
Has your journey been linear or were you interested in other things outside of the arts?
I’ve always been in and around the arts. I’m a singer, songwriter, producer, director, art director, art curator and digital artist.
You just developed a new art style. What inspired that?
Yes, abstract amateurism. I came across a YouTube channel on May 6, 2024 called “make art not content” and from the first video I watched, I knew something had woken up in me. I found my message that day and started creating in a way that made me feel like the child I used to be while growing up, free of fear and full of wonder.
Can you describe the key elements of your new art style and how they differ from your previous work?
My previous work majored in imaginative realism which involves altering reality to suit one’s imagination. The elements were centred mostly around photo manipulation and composition. But with abstract amateurism, it’s basically my brush and my canvas. It hinges on free-form sketching with minimal accuracy to create the abstract effect.
Which artists or movements have influenced your development of Abstract Amateurism?
Jean-Michel Basquiat, VOFO for artists, surreal and abstract Impressionism for movements.
Let’s talk about your pet project. Why reimagine album covers?
After getting the vision, I had to run with it in a way that’ll serve in the long run, I had to build momentum while obtaining mastery of the art form. So I figured that if I’m able to consistently create for 100 days then it’ll be like clockwork after that and that’s what happened. Also around that period, Apple Music put out the list so I saw that as a sign.
What is your creative process for each of these albums?
I open my canvas the night before, wake up, get me some tea, and then begin. It’s best to always do it in the morning before getting into the chaos of the day.
What challenges have you faced while adapting your style for these album covers?
The one challenge I encountered which was important for me to conquer was starting. The anxiety that comes with imagining how it would end up coming out can be crippling but I always go into it with an open mind and knowing that I won’t know what comes out until I do it.
Are there any particular album covers you’ve enjoyed reimagining the most, and why?
Every album cover had its own learning bit and I got better with everyone from 100 to 1. But the final 40 were interesting, at that point I started obtaining clarity on my growth.
How do you balance personal expression with the expectations of reimagining existing works?
I do it with zero expectations, because the point isn’t to imitate the existing work but to reimagine it, so there’s a lot of expression with respect to my state of mind when I work on each one.
How do you hope your project will resonate with audiences, both in terms of nostalgia and artistic innovation?
You come across an abstract amateurism piece and what goes through your mind is “I bet I can do that”, “I would’ve done this when I was 8 years”. That is the art connecting with the inner child in you and that means it’ll always have that element of nostalgia embedded in it and on the other hand, it pushes us to see the possibility in appreciating art that’s easy to consume. Art doesn’t have to be complex or filled with multilayered context all the time. There’s room for all art forms to breathe and thrive.
How has the feedback regarding your reinterpretations ben so far?
Amazing to say the least, and my audience has been very supportive.
What future projects or directions do you envision for the Abstract Amateurism style?
I wanna do exhibitions on exhibitions while I continue gaining mastery of the art style.
How do you see this style evolving in your overall artistic journey?
I see myself getting better at it and reaching more of my audience. The message is freedom and that has always been the mantra of my journey as a person and as a creator
What are your aspirations for this project?
My aspiration for the project was getting it done. All the advantages and experience that come with getting it done is what I’m building upon and that makes me happy.
