Born in 1989, Accra, Ghana, Isshaq graduated from the Ghanatta College of Arts and Design in 2012. He uses thick textures in his paintings through gestural brushstrokes of acrylic paint to depict bold, outlandish figures that evoke strong emotions such as restlessness, anguish, boredom, apathy and empathy. Through his art, Ismail aims to highlight the socio-political and economic reality of the contemporary times that affects individuality and identity. He seeks to depict distinct stories behind each of his faces to bring identity to the fore. The figures he showcases are ‘metaphors of people's sentiments and also serves as protagonist to represent the masses and advocate for the voiceless’.i
• Nkabom 1 is the first work by Isshaq Ismail to be offered at auction.
• Born in 1989 in Accra, Ghana, Ismail graduated from the Ghanatta College of Art and Design in 2012.
• Ismail depicts his signature geometric figures using a bold colour palette and thick impasto.
• In 2018, the artist founded Isshaq Projects, a foundation that provides a platform for emerging and mid-career artists.
