Dagnim Josepha Yague

Dagnim

Oil on canvas

“As a Togolese immigrant, I believe that cultural representation is important. My art would still have a single point of reference. God and people. My work features powerful family members surrounded by Togolese Fabrics. This series is inspired by the idea that people and culture are inextricably linked.

The fabrics featured are vibrant, vivid, and lively. That's the message I'm trying to get through. We feel confident, loved, and protected when we wear these prints. People teased me in grade school because I was odd. I had dark eyes, dark hair, Togolese features, and dressed traditionally. My art increases awareness of the importance of inclusivity.”

— Dagnim Josepha Yague

About the artist

Dagnim Josepha Yague

Dagnim Josepha Yague was born in 1997 in Lome, Togo. She currently resides in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania. In May 2021, she graduated with a BA in English with a minor in French from West Chester University.
Her artistic career started in 2016 when she wanted to pursue her passion. Dagnim's artwork represents her fascination with people and history. After living in America for a decade before returning to Togo, her love of Togolese fabric inspired her to paint portraits of herself and her family members. With oil paint, she juxtaposes realism features. Dagnim compositions evoke feelings of comfort with the use of brightly colored shapes.
Dagnim is also a self-portrait photographer in addition to creating original works of art. Her photographic work can be seen on her website. Dagnim has appeared in online galleries.