For those who have already visited Tales of Tales at HOPE93, it was an immersive journey through the intimate life and emotions of Chinemerem 'Eme' Omeh. For those who haven’t yet, this transformative exhibition is not to be missed.
HOPE93, a Black-owned gallery in the heart of Central London, showcases this European debut by the Nigerian-born, Atlanta-based artist. Through richly layered canvases, Omeh offers poignant narratives that reflect on memory, identity, and transformation.
Born in Nsukka, Nigeria, in 1996, and a graduate of the University of Nigeria’s Fine and Applied Arts programme, Omeh has developed a practice deeply rooted in storytelling. His works weave parables, personal memories, and myths into intricate visual tapestries, reflecting on his childhood in Nigeria and his present-day life in Atlanta.
Fragments of Memory and Layers of Truth
Central to Omeh’s work is the theme of recollection, particularly the vivid yet fragmented memories of his formative years. As the youngest in a large family, he often fought to assert himself, reflecting later that “attention is the most important human connection.” Struggling with reading and writing as a child, Omeh turned to painting as a way to communicate, and this transformation is beautifully captured in his piece, Parable of a Late Bloomer.
His canvases are dynamic, constructed through layers of paint, ink, acrylic, gesso, and oil that overlap like pages in a storybook. Some areas are densely textured, while others are smooth and sparse, representing the ebb and flow of memory. “My aim is not to paint beautiful works,” Omeh says, “it is to paint the truth.”
Windows to Transformation
Recurring motifs like open windows and doors appear throughout Omeh’s work, symbolising change, familial wisdom, and the light of new knowledge. The tiled floors and mathematical equations peppered across his canvases reflect his childhood struggles in school, yet they are reimagined as portals for transformation and growth.
This exploration of self extends to his fascination with familial ties and the narratives passed through generations. Omeh draws inspiration from early Renaissance artists and modern storytellers, admiring their ability to create myths and cultural legacies.
A European First
While Omeh has exhibited extensively across Georgia, Miami, and New York, Tales of Tales is his first solo presentation in Europe. HOPE93 Gallery has now been transformed into a vessel for his stories, making this exhibition a milestone for both the gallery and the artist.
Whether you’re drawn by the intricate layers of his canvases or the universal themes of resilience and transformation, this is an exhibition worth experiencing. If you haven’t yet, there’s still time to step into Omeh’s world and explore the tales he so masterfully tells.
Tales of Tales is open to the public now until January 8th 2025
All imagery courtesy of Hope93 Gallery
Hope93 Gallery
Address 54 Eastcastle St, London W1W 8EF
Social Media @Hope93Gallery
For more information visit Hope93 Gallery
Words by Jheanelle Feanny
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