Samuel NNOROM: Interwoven Narratives

Flying on Each Other’s Wings

In Flying On Each Other’s Wings, Samuel Nnorom explores the central theme of lifting others on our shoulders, employing it as a metaphor for mutual support. Sewing, tying and cutting, the artist employs complementary colors, heightening the sense of interconnectedness and solidarity: noteworthy in the composition are scattered patches of blues that seemingly yearn for ascent against the contrasting red background, symbolizing the help and support needed and provided. Samuel Nnorom personnaly interprets these blue elements as symbols of aspirations and collective endeavors, implying a shared pursuit of elevated goals.

Still in Connection

Still in Connection contemplates the delicate yet enduring ties that bind the world together. In this "disconnected" and "chaotic" form, as Nnorom puts it, some threads remain bubble-free, unveiling the intricate structure of the artist's "social fabric." Despite this fragility, the connection persists, maintaining the overall interconnection and balance. In the face of potential misfortunes, fears, and catastrophes that may unfold globally, Samuel Nnorom's piece serves as a poignant reminder that the fundamental bonds we share remain unbreakable.

Dissolving Moment 

Dissolving Moment initiates an open discussion on the Covid-19 period, marked by numerous social challenges and uncertainties regarding the future. The sculpture adeptly captures the feeling of temporal distortion, portraying moments when time seemed to stretch endlessly, and our perception of it became fragmented. The loose and dangling strands in the lower part of the piece serve as a powerful metaphor, expressing the unraveling and dissolution of temporal coherence during these confusing, unsettling, yet transformative times.

An Unknown Face

Despite Samuel Nnorom's inclination towards abstraction, certain pieces, such as An Unknown Face, purposefully create pareidolic perceptions. In this predominantly tropical green sculpture highlighted by a few vibrant red accents, Nnorom has sculpted a piece that gradually transforms into an elongated face, reminiscent of the geometric features found in West African mask culture.

Continuity in Living

In Continuity in Living, Samuel Nnorom reflects on the perpetual cycle of human existence. At the core of this concept is the notion of a "nuclear" element, akin to the nucleus found within cells of both plants and animals. Craftily forming a constellation of dynamic “bubbles” in motion, Nnorom captures the essence of this cellular interconnection, highlighting the inherent organic roundness present in all living forms. Swirls throughout the piece underscore the constancy of roundness in the natural world, serving as a visual metaphor for the continuous and interconnected journey of human lives.

Journey to the Center

In Journey to the Center, Samuel Nnorom delves into the theme of migration, contemplating the human condition interwoven with the resilience necessary for survival. Through a magnificent palette of cold colors, the mural sculpture aspires to depict the challenging journey — both physically and emotionally — undertaken by individuals in the pursuit of hope within the Unknown. Transforming his "social fabric" into a vibrant landscape, the artist skillfully captures the collective movement of people navigating the obstacles presented by migration, all in search of new opportunities.

Unexpected Sprouting

Time and Chance

In a generous palette of tropical greens heightened by accents of multicolored “bubbles”, Time and Chance undeniably distinguishes itself within Samuel Nnorom’s body of work. The suspended fabric accumulations, detached from the main structure and hanging in mid-air, constitute a unique element within his artistic corpus. Through his sculpture, the artist reflects on the mutual influence of time and chance on individual lives and their impact on the social fabric of society. To convey this concept, Nnorom evokes a luxuriant forest, abundant with vibrant flowers and succulent fruits, blessed by the passage of time and the fortuitous elements of chance.

White Flowers in Paradise

White Flowers in Paradise is a reflection of Samuel Nnorom’s idyllic vision of the world: a realm flourishing in vibrant hues, where nature prospers, and each individual has the opportunity to radiate their brightest light. The artist strategically positioned the "original" white flower motif from the vivid green Ankara fabric he selected at the focal point, underscoring its profound significance of fulfillment within his work.

Erupting 

Ememe

Ememe, an Igbo word meaning “celebration”, serves as a visual manifestation of the joyous gatherings and festivities deeply ingrained in Samuel Nnorom’s local culture. Capturing the vibrancy of these occasions, the artist makes a unique figurative use of his medium: stepping back, the viewer can perceive two moving silhouettes whose outlines are enhanced by a subtle white thread. One of the silhouette, accentuated by faded pink “bubbles”, appears to be dancing, while the other, formed against a bright yellow backgound, is playing the tamtam with gusto. Here, as Samuel Nnorom puts it, Ankara takes on a dual role, symbolizing both its everyday purpose and its ceremonial significance during local ceremonies and festivals.

Reaching Out For Breath 

True to its title, Reaching Out for Breath serves as an ode to human solidarity and the assistance sought from others in times of crisis. Drawing inspiration from Michelangelo's iconic Creation of Adam on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, this two-piece sculpture encapsulates a poignant reflection on the interconnectedness of humanity. It underscores the significance of mutual support and empathy during challenging moments. In paying homage to the classical masterpiece, Samuel Nnorom transforms its timeless imagery into a contemporary narrative, inviting viewers to reflect on the enduring importance of unity and compassion in the face of adversity.

Yellow Roses Rough Diamond

Yellow Roses Rough Diamond is a moving kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. The piece is marked by a swirl of vibrant fuchsia roses, drawing the eye to the lower portion of the work. To the left zigzags a winding path of cyan blues, yellows and greens. Along this intriguing pathway, a few yellow print flowers come into view, showcasing the original motifs of the meticulously selected Ankara scraps. For the artist, these yellow flowers serve as symbolic representations of light; akin to the radiance that rough diamonds emit after being polished, or, better still, the light that each and every one of us radiates.

Tough Walls Deserved Missiles

Blending various Ankara fabric motifs, Tough Walls Deserved Missiles harmonizes earthy browns, fiery reds, and subtle turquoise accents. Serving as a metaphor for life's metaphorical "missiles" that indiscriminately come our way, the artwork symbolizes the indelible marks they leave. Nevertheless, in the face of obstacles and pitfalls, it underscores the strength of resilience that not only sustains our existence but ultimately facilitates our healing.