Size:53 x 65 in. Charmaine Chanakira’s Egos (48" x 60") is an electrifying fusion of colour, symbols, and hidden narratives. Layers of acrylic, oil pastels, and pen create a chaotic yet intentional dialogue, weaving together fragmented faces, abstract shapes, and cryptic markings. The vibrant composition pulses with energy, evoking themes of identity, introspection, and societal commentary. Born in Zimbabwe and now based in London, Chanakira uses her art as a means of storytelling, responding to personal and collective experiences. She explores themes of social justice, culture, and self-reflection, blending primitivism and contemporary symbolism to construct works that demand engagement. Her distinctive style often incorporates hidden inscriptions, challenging viewers to decode embedded messages and uncover deeper meanings. Chanakira describes herself as an introvert who speaks through her art. By painting “big and bright”, she commands attention to issues that matter to her, allowing her extroverted artistic voice to communicate what words cannot. Her work is an exploration of both her own psyche and broader human experiences, inviting audiences to reflect on the complexities of ego, identity, and the spaces we occupy in the world.
