Michel Onésio
Michel Onésio, is a Mozambican artist who creates visibility through the humanisation of those in hiding and he uncovers this through freedom and expression. Onésio’s works are an expression of emotions though the use of hand gestures. Impulsive, spontaneous, and abstract expressionism. His use of mediums unites sculpture, paint and design and he predominantly works with charcoal, oil paints and metallic materials.
THE ARTIST
Michel Onésio
How my anxiety looks like
2022
‘I create these pieces to work through personal and creative struggles and it’s liberating to pour myself out, transferring what was inside onto canvas, papers, old books, sculptures, etc. Looking at the pieces now are like reading through specific pages of my journal and reflecting on the process has made me stronger.’ - Michel Onesio
Onésio is best known for bringing topics related to personal freedom, nudity, sexuality, homosexuality. He won recognition in his community that allows him to collaborate with artists he never imagined collaborating with idols. He now is Creative Art Director for local and international projects. Onésio believes that he has already left a reference in his community, which may not be unique, but fits as one in the content he transmits.
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Michel Onésio
Balance
2022
Michel's work showcases expression internalised and somewhat suppressed feelings and emotions. Unlike the stereotypical works of which institutions of the westernised art's world projects of artists located in Africa, Michel's work is something seen as 'the other' in Mozambique.
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These works that Michel often has described as 'The Scribbles' is something that has transformed into an element of art therapy, whilst dealing with life experiences. Whilst he explores his artistry, he creates these daily, instant raw expressions that are then transferred onto paper and titled to form a small introduction into his mind.
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THE PROCESS
Michel Onésio
Feeling Oppressed
2022
" Michel explores internal emotions and his external is always pure and authentic emotions of which he internalises and releases this on onto paper/canvas. Abstract expressionism is something of which his homeland is still questioning, and Michel makes it his right to feel to not constantly explain what exactly he felt at the time at first with his work."
"To see others interpretation is something that is ideal for the Artist, something of which Anticlone and myself mirror. The Narrative is the viewers, however, each work is titled, therefore lending the viewer to have an idea of what Michel was exploring at the time, and continues to explore." - Sade English
Michel Onésio
My depression is getting worse
2022
Michel Onésio
Alot goin' on in my mind
2022
" Trauma, Past, present and future is explored throughout of all Michel's work, Art being therapy is a key factor within all of Michel's works, the raw emotion is clear for all to see, however, he introduces works to you without expectation of understanding, and more so room to think and feel." - Sade English
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Michel explores and challenges the stereotypes of masculinity and emotion in each of Michel's works enabling the viewer to explore vulnerability, strength, depression, anxiety and the truth through his eyes.
Michel Onésio
Shaped Feelings
2022
