Amatullah

Amatullah is one of many emerging talents who has a passion for bringing ideas to life on a canvas. Her bold painting signals the vibrant perspective of what African talents have to offer in the scope of painting.

She is Nigerian based in the United Kingdom. Her work so far has been recognized across Nigeria where her most impressive work was the painting of the late King of the Ebira people in Kogi State. She has also collaborated with other artists and creatives presenting their work at exhibitions in Abuja.

Later in the text, we will go deep into Amatullah’s process behind her, her opinion on the creative space in Africa and her intentions for the future.

Background

Amatullah’s journey in painting started at a young age but fully delved into her paintings during COVID-19, where she taught herself through YouTube videos practicing with tools such as watercolours, acrylic, charcoal and simple ones such as a pencil. Though painting for her was a time for her to unwind, her work quickly gained attention and praise, leading her to do it full-time.

Her inspiration for producing drawings came from the works of Kelvin Okafor because of his realistic drawings and the tools he used to create them such as charcoal.

Can you Define your Work?

Her paintings engage with a contemporary feature with her love for adding geometry such as straight lines and bold colours. In addition, she aims to create paintings that capture a high level of realism, conveying depth and drawing viewers into a lifelike experience. The paintings are made through the use of diverse methods such as the use of charcoal due to the level of depth to the vibrant, versatile and contemporary look of acrylic paint, in which she has seamlessly blended traditional and modern techniques.

When looking at her design, she wants you to see a mixture of tradition and contemporary expression, an example of which is the fusion of the Ebira culture and modern features. She also points out her interest in engaging with fabrics, one of which is a Yoruba fabric called Adire. Another medium she talked about is the use of spray painting.

What Feeling do your Paintings Invoke?

Amatullah says that her painting intends to give others a feeling of happiness, boldness, and adrenaline. Personally, when she paints, she feels a sense of calm, which she describes as “meditation.” Having been inspired by her younger brother’s enthusiasm, outgoing personality and connection with others, it has been a profound source of her work.

She further explains that in her paintings the bold colours and straight lines represent confidence and it shows in the vivid contrasts and unapologetic brushstrokes capturing a sense of attitude, a refusal to shake, shrink and fade into the background. 

What is your Opinion on the Creative Space in Africa and where does it go?

Amatullah believes that the creative scene is growing fast. She has been inspired by the number of people who have a deep passion not just for painting but also different design modes like fashion. Her experience with other creatives and positive feedback has encouraged her to keep exploring her creative journey and be a part of the youthful energy and spirit of collaboration. The question was asked about the advice she would give to others, and her response was to go for it and start with what you have, to which she began with a pencil and to be consistent.

Amatullah’s work showcases the presence of an ever-growing pole of youthful, passionate Africans. One of the things you could take from her pieces is the willingness to be bold and confident. Her hope is to showcase her work at exhibitions, solo or with others and to connect with a global audience.