[15.54.. BENIN] Art Beyond the Strokes with Andy Akangah

54Lights

WHAT TO EXPECT...WHEN YOU PUSH PLAY

Let’s go to West Africa! 54Lights takes you to the brilliant country of Benin through a conversation with self-taught illustrator from the wonderful nation. The Beninese artists, and CEO of AKARTS (a hip-hop inspired streetwear line) Andy Akangah joined us in studio to talk about his work, inspiration and process.

Taking inspiration from French illustrations, and other styles from around the world, Andy had an artist's touch (and temperament)...even as a kid. He shares his thoughts on finding ones own style and how his personal signature came into being. As a creator, Andy works tirelessly during the day (honing his craft at marketing) and then turns to illustrating at night. He's mastered the positive hustle and is designing a unique life(style) all his own.

LEAN IN, LISTEN UP...AND LEARN

For Andy, inspiration comes from everything and everywhere...including old comics, English, French and Manga

• Andy is self-taught and knew that if he wanted to get better he would have to work at it…he is in a classroom of one and he is the teacher AND student
• Andy has come a long way from a beginner artist to now creating his own brushes after trial and error of what he likes/doesn’t
• Andy's artistic journey began with childhood sketches, influenced by French graphic novels, manga, and Western comics, shaping his unique style.
• Self taught discipline and continuous learning are crucial for artistic growth, as demonstrated by Andy's commitment to studying and creating his own digital brushes.
• Marketing skills are essential for artists; Andy's background in marketing helps him promote his work and build his brand effectively.
• Cultural heritage plays a significant role in Andy's art, with Beninese influences reflected in his use of vibrant colours and water themes.
• The concept of "spells" in creative work highlights the need to balance different aspects of an artistic career, such as marketing and creating.
• Collaboration with major brands like NBA and AT&T can be achieved through persistent self-promotion and leveraging press coverage.
• The importance of maintaining a strong connection to one's roots while pursuing a global artistic career is exemplified by Andy's pride in his Beninese heritage.

QUOTABLES

"I don't think I have talent. I think it's just you have to show up. I work all day and I work all night. I put in the hours because I just can't do otherwise. I love this."

"Growing up in Benin, I've discovered that our country is full of talented people in the arts field. We have a lot of poets, artists that do stuff in so many different mediums."

"There's this thing that comes up a lot in my work, and that's water. Benin's very close to the ocean. I used to live by the beach actually growing up."

"You come as a representative of Benin, but you are not Benin... You are Andy and that is the reality of it”

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