Ca’ del Duca 3052, Corte del Duca Sforza
San Marco, 30124, Venezia, Italy
Tue – Sat 10am – 6pm
AKKA Project is proud to present Fowskow Moments, a deeply introspective and visually compelling body of work by Ethiopian artist Michael Hailu. Through his watercolor paintings, Hailu engages with themes of identity, interconnectedness, and the dualities that define human existence. His artistic philosophy is rooted in the African concept of Ubuntu, the belief that "I am because we are", which underpins his approach to both art and life.
The name Fowskow traces back to Hailu's childhood, a word shared among the children in his neighborhood. More than a simple nickname, it embodies a profound communal spirit-one that mirrors the guiding principles of his artistic practice. For Hailu, creation is an act of surrender, a process where the self dissolves into the work. His art is not merely self-expression; it is a conduit for peace, transformation, and shared prosperity.
Hailu's paintings explore a range of subjects, with a particular focus on portraits that emphasize the inherent significance of all things. Drawing inspiration from the dual colors associated with King Solomon, his work captures the contrasts of life: good and evil, darkness and light, joy and sorrow. These opposing forces serve as metaphors for the complexity of human experience, urging viewers to reflect on the delicate balance that shapes our world.
His creative process remains fluid and open, allowing each piece to evolve organically, often beyond his conscious control. It is a dynamic dialogue between the physical and the unseen, between material and spirit, between the artist and the greater forces that influence existence.
Fowskow Moments is more than an exhibition - it is an invitation to engage with a philosophy that transcends borders, connecting us all through art, history, and shared humanity.