Brice Esso is a multidisciplinary artist from Cote D’Ivoire. He is a graduate of Georgia State University and the New York Academy of Art; where he studied economics and sculpture, respectively. Shortly after his masters in Sculpture, the artist focused his activity around marble carving essentially producing works for exhibitions and personal collections mostly in the USA, Italy, and Cote D’Ivoire. In the search for more challenges and meaning in his art practice; Brice tried to answer the question, what makes an object a valuable creation? This question led him to the exploration of materials, processes, and the manipulation of the context of creation, making it a part of the piece itself. Currently, Brice has set up a creative studio named Studio 08 in Abidjan. The goal of the studio is to explore the potential of Abidjan as an uncanny city, a “carrefour” rich in raw materials and resources that can be turned into exquisite, finished handmade products such as the marble sculptures he makes. To harness the value of African craftsmanship, the artist uses the current technological tools such as the internet, augmented reality, robotic drilling, coupled with the archaic local techniques found in West Africa. Brice is now exploring his creativity in, garment making, traditional sculpture, perfumery, modern Design, jewelry, and leatherwork mainly.
Rectangles are the main focus of this collection as they have been used throughout the ages in a variety of forms, including as building blocks in architecture, as frames for paintings and photographs, and as shapes in various forms of design and artwork. In art, rectangles can symbolize stability and order and can be used to create a sense of balance and symmetry in composition. The neurological effect of colors can vary depending on the individual and cultural context, but colors are known to have a powerful impact on human emotion and perception. For example, warm colors such as red and yellow are often associated with excitement and warmth, while cool colors such as blue and green are often associated with calmness and serenity. Similarly, shapes can also have a powerful impact on the human brain. For example, curves and rounded shapes are often associated with softness and comfort, while sharp angles and lines can create a sense of tension and conflict. The rectangular shape is particularly prevalent in our lives, appearing in everyday objects such as buildings, screens, books, and furniture. Abstract expressionism and conceptual art are two important art movements that emerged in the 20th century. Abstract expressionism is characterized by the use of large canvases, gestural brushstrokes, and spontaneous mark-making to create abstract compositions. Conceptual art, on the other hand, is focused on the idea or concept behind a work of art, and may use a wide range of materials and techniques to communicate its message. Both movements have had a profound impact on the art world, and continue to influence contemporary art practice today.
What are the biggest challenges you have met in your career?
the first, and still the main challenge is knowing what it means to be an artist in this day and age. An artist today is a complete business with many moving parts all more important than the other. This creates an environment where the art becomes a product, hence gets coloured by all the marketing trends. It is very difficult for an artist to exist as is, now to flourish while staying sincere and true is the hardest battle.
How was your passion for art born?
I wanted to be an artist because it symbolised freedom to me. In my imagination, the artist was a pathfinder, the adventurer who ventures far in the dark and brings back his findings for the world to enjoy. People such as bob marley, fela Kuti ,or Banksy, to cite just these three have been a strong influence on my choice to pursue a career in art as I saw them as guides venturing into the tumults of the world. If, art is a life force, and it is true that it shapes cultures and civilisations. I would like to be part of it.
What is your main source of inspiration?
Life.
What does art mean to you?
Art is the purest expression of consciousness and de facto our individualities. If mastered it can be the most impactful tool or weapon for or against humanity. Now, for me, as Brice ESSO; art is my most genuine contribution to humanity.
Brice Esso