September 23 - October 14, 2023
From Mitochondria Gallery:
“Please see below for more details on Nedia Were and the Exhibition. I have attached an image file of Nedia’s work titled “The General. Oil on Canvas. 48 x 42 in. 2023. This image is courtesy of Mitochondria Gallery and Nedia Were”
Mitochondria Gallery is honored to present “The Possibilities of Becoming,” is the second solo exhibition by Kenyan visual artist Nedia Were (b. 1989) in Houston Texas.
This body of work presented is centered around the artist’s observations on the intersection of class and masculinity, from the vantage point of the unequal distribution of odds in life. Nedia is focused on the hierarchical structure and disparities of power that have persisted over time. He examines the perceived distinctions of class relationships in his society, and the efforts to elevate, or sustain hierarchy in social class.
Nedia is exploring a more expressive application of oil paints to depict his subjects. It is a new series that builds on his previous “Mumwamu Series,” as the richness in the skin tone of his subjects is still present. Nedia implements dress code as an anchor to convey the social status of the male subjects presented. There is a recurring theme of leadership and mortality across this exhibition.
Nedia focuses on three stages of masculinity that capture the subjects presented. The first stage revolves around self-betterment, attaining and implementing skills that can potentially elevate one’s status in society. The second stage begins when the individual is in a position of elevated societal status and influence. The third stage is the battle and acceptance of mortality.
Nedia Were (b. 1989, Kenya) has participated in over 30 exhibitions. Since his successful debut of the “Mumwamu” series at Mitochondria Gallery as part of the Duo exhibition “The Line Between” in the fall of 2021, Nedia has continued to receive major excitement around his work. Nedia Were’s works have been presented at institutions and museums, the most recent in 2022 at the Wall House Museum in St. Barthelemy. His works are also represented at New Museum Berlin, Germany, and the Nairobi National Museum of Kenya. He was listed as the second most followed emerging artist on Artsy for 2022. Nedia is scheduled to participate in the XIV Florence Biennale, Italy later in the fall.”
Reception: September 23, 2023 | 7–9 pm
2220 Commerce Street #D
Houston, 70702 Texas
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