‘How university strike made me discover my art’

Peter Ojingiri is a hyperrealism artist. He was one of the finalists in the 2019 American Art Awards, realism category. Here, he talks about what propelled his style, the journey to self-realization, and more. Excerpts:   How would you describe your art? The style of the work I create is known as hyperrealism. I recreate […]

Peter Ojingiri is a hyperrealism artist. He was one of the finalists in the 2019 American Art Awards, realism category. Here, he talks about what propelled his style, the journey to self-realization, and more. Excerpts:

 

How would you describe your art?

The style of the work I create is known as hyperrealism. I recreate an expressive illusory realism that shows the figurative happenings of the mind and feelings of a person. I try as much as possible to depict their emotions on paper for the rest of the world to see.

What motivated you to explore this style?

I come from a creative family. I watched my mom illustrate on clothes she sews. Also, seeing my brothers draw comics and my sisters baking. I started by drawing comic characters. I guess I wanted to be like everyone else in the family but the story changed in 2017 when my institution was on strike. That was when I decided to try making art. I was motivated by a friend who believed I could not create a hyperrealism art. So, I took up the challenge. When I started drawing people saw how good I was and I got a lot of feedback. I was told never to stop. I never did and it keeps getting better. This is literally how my journey as an artist began.

However, I think I have always been an artist. I just needed a spark and direction. I have been making sketches ever since I was little. But I discovered hyperrealism in 2016 during an exhibition called ‘The Insanity Exhibition.’ I participated during the seven months of ASUU strike that affected Kogi State University.

How did your parents react to your decision to pursue a career as an artist?

Honestly, at first, they never considered it as a way of making a living. But again, they never discouraged me from picking up a pencil to draw. Instead they were always interested in seeing my next piece and even shared it on their social media platforms. They supported me because they believe I am capable of making the right choice about my future.

How challenging has the journey been?

It has always been very challenging. Sometimes I would consider quitting but whenever that new idea sets in, you feel like it’s the first time again. The process of creating the image in your head and trying to bring that imagination to life can be very tasking. The crazy part sometimes is when you have the image in your head and drawing it in real life feels like a repetition.

Another challenge is the way people connect with my works. Most times people get carried away with the details in the drawings, neglecting the message behind each piece I create. Being a Nigerian is sometimes also challenging. Most of the potential international clients I come across react differently when they know I am from Nigeria, and I have lost some business opportunities because of this. This is something I find discouraging. The bad ones have ruined the reputation of the good ones. I just hope Nigeria is able to recover and get its reputation and credibility back. Else, hardworking Nigerians will continue to lose good opportunities that could change their lives forever.

You were one of the finalists in the 2019 American Art Awards, realism category. What was the experience like?

I was reluctant to submit my work at first because I was unsure if it met the standard. But a friend of mine wouldn’t let me rest about submitting. So I did. I never expected to be selected till I got a mail from the American Art Awards nominating me for the realism category. This taught me a lot about myself and my work. It taught me to never underestimate myself and to always put in my best in every piece I create. I was waiting to become perfect until I realized perfection is just an illusion. Just do you and let your work speak for you.

What inspired ‘Blackbird,’ the artwork that put you in second place at the award?

‘Blackbird’ was inspired by the experience of a black woman, showing what it takes to be a woman and black. The society has certain codes that shape the lives of women. It is hard being a woman in a society that thinks you are the weaker vessel, where you are seen as a sex object and only meant to make babies. This is what ‘Blackbird’ is trying to portray. I tried to show her as a strong woman who is greater than what the society has painted her to be. The drawing is basically meant to strengthen the black woman.

What inspires your art generally?

I am inspired by every story around the globe. I think we all have a unique story that’s worth telling. So, everything and anything inspires me.

What is the price range of your art?

My commission works are dependent on the sizes, but my prints, 16 by 20 inches is $350 while the 21 by 25 inches is $550.

What is the most challenging piece you have worked on so far and why?

All of my works have been challenging in their unique way, although some have not been completed. It is hard to pick one because every piece is in its own unique way.

Who is your role model?

Kelvin Okafor and Arinze Stanley Egbe are my role models. They are both hyperrealists. The way they express their ideas caught my attention. I am also encouraged by the fact that they are Nigerians like me. That gives me hope that I can achieve more than I thought I could, even as one trying to influence the world at large.

Also, my family influences me in every way. They have been really supportive and I think of them whenever I am faced with making a decision. They all influence my life in different ways that cannot be compared.

What’s your favorite part of being an artist?

Bringing my imagination to life, and people seeing through my eyes into my mind.

What is that advice you got that has stuck with you?

People always repeat this statement over and over again, “Don’t stop.” That is the greatest advice I have ever received. Whenever I want to quit, I remember that phrase and that gives me the strength to continue to bring my imagination to life.