2022 Abu’s Cultural Journey Solo Exhibition at the Atrium Gallery
- June 23, 2022 - September 15, 2022
Rhode Island State Council on the Arts presents "Abu’s Cultural Journey" Solo Exhibition at the Atrium Gallery @ One Capitol Hill. This exhibit features intriguing artwork containing an assemblage of found objects created by Abu. Abu is a Rhode Island artist, born in Liberia along the west coast of Africa, who uses an array of textural materials including fabric, leather, fur, rope, metal, glass, beads, rocks, cardboard, and even vintage rubber jewelry molds to create his compelling artwork.
“As an artist, my inspiration comes from the world around me. Through this reality, I fight to capture daily stories that will become tomorrow’s memories. I am passionate about learning various cultures and then reinterpret them through my art. As a photographer and artist, I’ve participated and captured many memorable and creative moments. Through these experiences, I have learned more about the arts, enjoyed time with friends, met new people, all while gaining lasting relationships.” – Abu
Abu was born in Liberia. His mother is Liberian, and father is from Sierra Leone. Abu stated, “The experience of growing up between two cultures strongly shaped my personality and guided my perspective throughout my life.” Abu studied photography at the Community College of Rhode Island, then went on to earn an Associate in Business Administration, Bachelor in Marketing, and an MBA in Global Leadership/Marketing degree from Johnson and Wales University. This educational foundation, coupled with strong networking abilities, provided the knowledge to manage and market his passion for photography and the arts.
When Abu is not creating artwork, he spends his time giving back to the community as a volunteer at Higher Ground International, a nonprofit organization in Providence. Abu said, “For the love of my community, I set-aside time to volunteer at Higher Ground Int., where I have had the privilege to call home for many years, helping African elderly ladies enjoy the outdoors and meet new friends.”
Abu’s Exhibit Tribute:
“I want to dedicate this show to five important individuals who are not here to see and witness this show and thank them for making my life what it is today: my late grandmother, Luvinia E. Sims, thank you for the lessons that led me here; my late father, John P. Abu, thank you for all your support; my friend who introduced me to creating, Sidney Leonardo Tillett, inspired me by gifting a bag of scrap leather on one of my visits to his studio; the awesome, amazing, fashionable, and funny Adneris, who lost her battle to breast cancer before her first art gallery/museum exhibit with me, I miss you; and the incredible artist and friend, Michaelle Saintil, who also lost her battle to breast cancer, I miss you.”
Atrium Gallery at One Capitol Hill
Rhode Island State Council on the Arts (RISCA) developed the Atrium Gallery to recognize talented artists from communities throughout the state. The Atrium Gallery hosts multidisciplinary exhibitions in partnership with diverse artists and cultural organizations. The gallery features a stunning tall glass ceiling with light that cascades into an open space surrounded by three walls of artwork. This has become a destination point for visitors and the many people who frequent the Administration offices at One Capitol Hill, while enriching the environment for hundreds of state workers in the building.
Solo Exhibitions Program
The Atrium Gallery hosts solo exhibitions each year displaying an array of mediums that includes but is not limited to paintings, photography, textiles, and installation. The public gallery features emerging and established artists who are interested in exploring and showcasing their creative vision through an exceptional body of work. Selected artists are provided an installation preparatory specialist, promotional brochure or postcard, opening gallery reception, as well as being included in RISCA’s website and newsletter.
The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts is a state agency supported by appropriations from the Rhode Island General Assembly and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, a federal agency. RISCA provides grants, technical assistance and staff support to arts organizations and artists, schools, community centers, social service organizations and local governments to bring the arts into the lives of Rhode Islanders. To learn more visit www.arts.ri.gov