Leena Similu's "Kupe" features a cylindrical clay form adorned with vibrant yellows, oranges, and hints of red, embodying a lively yet earthy palette. The sculpture is mounted on a simple wooden base, resembling a traditional West African mask with abstract, organic protrusions. Its expressive texture and bright colors reflect Similu's contemporary style, melding cultural heritage with modern aesthetics. This piece is rooted in the artist's exploration of identity and cultural dialogue, bridging traditional West African influences with present-day narratives. ...
Leena Similu focuses mainly on clay-based sculpture, investigating identity as a complex blend of personal history, cultural heritage, and motherhood. Her practice draws heavily from her West African background, expressing the challenges of navigating multiple cultures within a predominantly Eurocentric society. The lasting quality of clay complements her fascination with temporality, creating a conversation that bridges past, present, and future. Bringing a refined compositional sensibility and bold elegance to her work, Similu’s sculptures reference West African masquerade traditions, evoking the qualities of historical artifacts while employing contemporary color palettes and finishes—such as platinum—to anchor each piece firmly in the present moment. Her dynamic and expressive approach invites viewers into rich narratives of cultural identity and human connection, blending formal playfulness with conceptual depth to create works that feel both deeply personal and universally resonant. ...
ILY2 collaborates with a multigenerational roster of emerging, mid-career, and historically underrepresented artists, with a program grounded in feminist perspectives.
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