Eric Odartey Cruickshank, Solace in Tears, 2023, acrylic on canvas
This painting illustrates a child socking breast in tears, the painting is dominated with reds, blues and the greens which contrast yet they harmonize. this painting emphasizes the child's need for breast milk which symbolizes comfort and the power of empathy and connection between the child and mother, a connection between the people and their leaders.
In my art, I delve into a world where thick applications of paint carefully spread across the canvas gives life to bold human figures. These vibrant figures emerge within a colour scheme dominated by striking reds and blues, creating a visual language through which I explore contemporary, socio-cultural issues and political narratives.
My creative process is deeply woven with my immediate environment, serving as both muse and mirror. The very temperature of the air, the rhythms of daily life, and the shaded political landscape all find their expression in my work. Each brushstroke becomes a brush with reality, capturing the essence of my surroundings in textured layers.
Eric Odartey Cruickshank, Awakening to Change. Acrylic on Canvas, 2023
I am driven by a profound intention to project, preserve, highlight, and document the richness of humanity. With every stroke of the brush, I aim to crystallize the relationship of people, cultures and the social fabrication. It is my belief that art possesses the power to exceed mere aesthetics, serving as a vessel for preserving our collective stories and provoking crucial dialogues.
Through my use of vibrant colors, I aim to breathe life into these issues, provoking intuitive responses and inviting viewers to engage in a dialogue that goes beyond the surface. The boldness of the human figures represents the strength of the human spirit, even in the face of the most complex challenges.
My art becomes a channel for connection, inviting viewers to reflect upon their own experiences, while simultaneously shedding light on the broader social and political narratives that shape our world. With each stroke of the brush, I seek to captivate not only the eyes but also the minds and hearts of those who engage with my work, inspiring them to reconsider their perspectives and, ultimately fostering a more supportive and compassionate world.
Eric Odartey Cruickshank, known professionally as "lines being," is a versatile artist born in Accra, Ghana, in the year 2000. Currently in his final year as a student at Takoradi Technical University in the Western region of Ghana. He has cultivated a strong aptitude and creative prowess in producing contemporary art across various mediums, spanning from dry to wet techniques. His artistic motivation is deeply rooted in a profound desire to showcase, conserve, emphasize, and chronicle the diverse richness of humanity.
With every stroke of his brush, Eric strives to crystallize the intricate connections between people, cultures, and the fabric of society. As he puts it, "It is my belief that art possesses the power to transcend mere aesthetics, serving as a vessel for preserving our collective stories and sparking essential dialogues."