African Design Magazine February 2015 | Page 87

Artist profile What art critics have had to say about Okoye “These art works express universal emotions, contemporary forms, and the global idealism of their creator.” – The Georgia Straight “His paintings are noble, vivid, honest and poetic.” – Diversity News, Seattle “Okoye is a welcome addition to the lower mainland’s Black community and his contribution to the arts in BC does our community proud.” – Afro News, Vancouver “He represents a new generation of artists who are taking steps further from the Black power and identity concerns of their predecessors to embrace a global identity.” – Diversity News, Seattle “His art is not only an exploration of visual aesthetics but a creative search for the enthronement of saner values based on man’s respect of his inheritance.” – Vanguard, Nigeria “A sculptor whose creative instances are clearly channelled towards a reflection of both his contemporary and cultural heritage.” – Daily Times, Nigeria “Okoye’s thoughts and feelings as an African are deeply expressed in his art works.” – Sunday Champion “The concept and execution of his works features extensive creativity.” – The Champion “Besides being socially conscious in the works, Chidi is a cultural irredentist.” – The Guardian, Nigeria 1993 “Chidi manages wood, metal, fibre glass and cement with great efficiency that one wonders if Chidi was born to rule these materials.” – Mobil News, Nigeria “An artist with a mission for cultural re-armament.” – The Guardian, Nigeria africandesignmagazine.com 87