ISHMAEL ARMARH

"As a Ghanaina artist, I, Ishmael Armarh, explore the vibrant artistry of Black Identidy through the intricate lens of pointilism. My artistic journey is driven by a passion to reclaim and celebrate the beauty of the Black Body, often marginalized in the art historical canon.

Through meticulous dots of color, I weave powerful narratives of resilience, hope, and self love, Challeging dominant represntations of Blackness. My art is a statement to the richness of African culture and the boundless potiential of the Black experience.

Which each piece, I strive to push the boundaries of pointilism, harnessing its meditative quality to convey the depth and complexity of Black emotions.

My ultimate goal is to be recognized among the top 5 artists in Africa, using my platform to amplify the voices and stories of the marginalized, while inspiring a new generation of Black artists to claim their space in the art world"

 Born in 1986 in Accra, Ghana, IIshmael Armarh’s representation is richly drawn from historical and mythological figures. They are steeped into the textural surface, emanating an eeriness, announcing a coming of a new age of visual expression. Fetching international acclaim, Ismael is an emerging contemporary artist. Completely post-contemporary and post-human, they embark on the millennial sense of representation.

Ishmael borrows his narratives from the sci-fi tales that reflect the nature of youth today. He is trained at Ghanatta College of Art & Design, Accra, GHA. Developing his skills since his primary education, middle and advanced education, his training has been beneficial in developing a novel language for his ideas. Ishmael is interested in graphic design and painting. Portraying his interest in besetting environments and relative activities, the black figures in his painting provide his deep sense of connection to his native. Fundamentally, he likes to work with bright colours and prominent brush strokes. The backdrop of tiny forms develops an innovative texture that appears ornate and addresses a cultural momentum. Similarly, the accessories over figures provide a specific royal attribute to the characters.

Progressing towards a successful career, in 2021, he was selected as Visiting fellow at the reputed Noldor residency. At the same time, in the following year 2022, he had his first solo exhibition at Chilli Art Projects, London, UK.

Ishmael Armagh lives and works in Ghana.