Sammy
Lutaya
ARTIST STATEMENT
Art has been my lifelong companion—a language I have spoken since I could first hold a brush. As the poet Nikki Giovanni once said, "Art is not to cultivate the mind, art is for the cultivated mind." In my case, art found fertile ground, growing into a passion that has shaped my journey and defined my purpose.I am a Kenyan artist based in Barcelona, Spain, with over 25 years of experience. My work seamlessly blends realism, abstract expressionism, and modern cubism, drawing from diverse artistic traditions while forging my unique visual language.
Each piece I create is a reflection of ideas, fantasies, and lived experiences, often framed within natural settings. I am drawn to the full spectrum of human emotion—joy, pain, sadness, and happiness—and I channel these themes through a dynamic interplay of colour, form, and texture.
My preferred mediums are oils and acrylics, which allow me to experiment freely, pushing the boundaries of technique and expression. Influenced by masters such as Picasso, Van Gogh, and Kandinsky, my work is not only a tribute to their groundbreaking approaches but also an homage to the beauty of nature and the urgent need for environmental conservation.
About the Exhibition: "VEILS OF IDENTITY: UNMASKING AFRICAN WOMEN'S STORIES"
In my latest collection, Veils of Identity: Unmasking African Women’s Stories, I delve into the intricate and often hidden narratives of African women. This body of work pays homage to their pivotal roles in society, exploring their resilience, strength, and multifaceted identities. Through bold, vibrant colors reminiscent of tropical sunrises and sunsets, I seek to capture the vitality and spirit of the African woman.
This exhibition is both a celebration and a revelation. It seeks to peel back the layers of societal expectations, cultural norms, and personal struggles that often obscure the true essence of these women. Each piece invites the viewer to witness their stories—stories of endurance, transformation, and quiet triumphs.
Veils of Identity is not just an artistic exploration; it is a call to recognize the often-overlooked contributions of African women and to honor their invaluable role in shaping our world. Through this collection, I aim to inspire reflection and dialogue about identity, visibility, and the universal themes of humanity.