Armstrong Agoreyo is a skilled artist recognised for his distinctive collage creations. His art seeks to construct narratives that address waste reduction, communicate themes of environmental sustainability and humanity’s relationship with nature. In this interview with Daily Trust on Sunday, Agoreyo speaks on his works virtually exhibited in Italy and Spain.
What do you seek to achieve with your works?
All the pieces transcend aesthetics as they serve as a medium for cultural expression and social commentary that resonate globally. Every exhibited art piece revolves around the deep connection between humanity and nature, aiming to inspire a deep reflection about not just the symbiosis between man and nature, but dialogues about the repercussion of our actions towards sustainable forest conservation.
How did people in Italy and Spain respond to your works? Did you notice any cultural differences in their reactions?
The response was awesome as it inspired visitors to reflect on their relationship with nature and advocate sustainable forest management practices. For instance, in Italy, the reaction was more introspective and analytical. The viewers were fascinated by the historical and cultural narratives embedded in my pieces as the audience tended to engage deeply with the conceptual layers of my works, thus appreciating the blend of aesthetics and poignant commentary.
Information reached me that there was a strong emphasis on intellectual discussions around the ethics of conservation and the role of art in social activism.
In Spain, the response was deeply emotional and personal. Many viewers shared personal stories and experiences related to environmental degradation in their communities. The connection between the artworks and the viewers’ daily realities was palpable, sparking passionate conversations about the need for grassroots action and local solutions to conservation challenges. The Spanish audience thus exhibited a sense of urgency and a collective desire to reclaim and protect their natural heritage.
The cultural differences in the reactions were evident in the way each audience connected with the artworks. The Spanish audience’s response was more analytical, highlighting a tradition of intellectual engagement and historical reflection. While the Italian audience’s reaction was deeply personal and emotional, emphasising the direct impact of environmental issues on their lives and the importance of community-driven conservation efforts.
Overall, the exhibition highlighted the universal concern for nature and the diverse ways in which different cultures engage with environmental issues. These varied responses underscored the importance of tailoring conservation messages to resonate with specific cultural contexts, thereby fostering a global movement towards sustainable forest conservation.
What were some of the challenges you faced in having your works exhibited virtually?
I believe the sentiment arose from a preference for showcasing original works rather than digital reproduction. In the contemporary art landscape, there is a prevailing scepticism, where many viewers may perceive images of artworks as AI-generated rather than authentic representation of physical pieces. This scepticism undermines the authenticity and effort behind the original creations. With comprehensive education and awareness initiatives, audiences can better distinguish between AI-generated images and photographs of genuine artworks, fostering a more informed and appreciative viewership. This distinction is crucial for maintaining the integrity and value of original art in the digital age.
How did you engage with your audiences during the virtual exhibition?
The advent of technology and social media has significantly facilitated audience interaction. I received numerous messages from random art enthusiasts on my Instagram handle, expressing their admiration for my works, which truly made my day. Additionally, observations and recommendations were communicated to me via email by the gallery representing me at that time, enhancing the engagement and feedback process.
How did the virtual exhibition format impact the way you presented your art compared to the traditional gallery show?
The virtual presentation of my artworks compared to the traditional gallery showed that in the virtual setting, the possibilities for creative display are boundless. Each piece was accompanied by interactive elements such as detailed descriptions and video commentary, enhancing the audience’s engagement and understanding of the themes. Unlike traditional galleries, where physical space and lighting constraints can limit display options, the virtual format enabled me to present my art without such restrictions. The virtual exhibition also allowed for global accessibility, reaching a wider audience who could experience the art from the comfort of their homes.
How do you think the experience of viewing art virtually differs from seeing it in person?
You see, in the virtual setting, the experience is mediated through a screen, which can affect the perception of scale, texture and detail. Virtual exhibitions also offer the convenience of accessibility from anywhere in the world, unlike in-person viewing, which only allows for a direct, unmediated interaction with the artwork, where viewers can appreciate the nuances of the medium, the artist’s technique and the physical presence of the piece. However, I think I would choose participating in virtual exhibitions as they provide unique advantages such as interactive features, augmented reality and detailed digital descriptions that can enhance understanding and engagement. They also allow for a broader reach, making art accessible to a global audience who may not have the opportunity to visit in person.
How do you see the role of virtual exhibition evolving in the future of the art world?
I believe the role of virtual exhibitions in the art world is set to expand significantly in the years to come. While driven by technological advancements and a growing emphasis on accessibility and sustainability, I believe virtual exhibitions democratise art, thus reaching global audiences without geographic or financial barriers. This will further give artists the will to explore new digital mediums thereby pushing creative boundaries, thus helping to support sustainability by reducing the need for travel and physical resources.
Were there memorable moments from the exhibitions that you’d like to share?
One of my cherished moments was witnessing my works raise questions and provoke thought among people of different cultures and races around the world; even in my absence. I believe that as artists, we are endowed by the universe to create works that are not only aesthetically pleasing, but also encourage reflection on our actions and foster a sense of understanding and respect for nature. This fills me with joy, as art is a universal language meant to be understood without words, and I am delighted that my works have successfully achieved this.
What was the most surprising feedback you received from viewers during the exhibition?
A visitor at the exhibition reached out to me online, expressing disbelief at the level of patience required to create such a conceptual piece, and even asking if I was superhuman. This brought a smile to my face as I was pleased to know that my works made a positive impact.
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