Conversations, Jaybo Monk and Augustine Kofie

“Conversations” is a two man show featuring the works of Jaybo Monk and Agustine Kofie which was held at the New SOZE Gallery last 13th of November. At the show’s core is the interaction of these two artists with different approaches in art; two distinct styles merging in a single space producing an amazing collection of artworks.

Jaybo Monk’s approach of utilizing figurative images in abstract compositions continues in his series for “Conversations”. Jaybo seems to shatter reality then put back the bits and pieces along with solid colors and expressionistic strokes. The images are broken yet laid out in exquisite harmonious compositions. Fragments of the human anatomy are spread out across the canvases amidst varying colors and textures giving only glimpse of whatever human actions are transpiring. This process produces artworks that struck a delicate balance between figurative and abstract approach.

Kofie’s Abstract pieces are mélanges of subtle earth tones and dashing mechanical lines with occasional streaks of strong colors. With translucent layers of white the artist ties every element on his canvases into skillfully composed works of art. Because of the multiple lines bolting in various directions the audience gets a sense of dynamism and Kofie’s pieces become alive with these systematic movements. It is easy to see the chaos from the artist’s automatist approach being manipulated by the artist. In every piece the artist’s control is apparent. Kofie’s palette and his superb sense of balance show a kind of artistic maturity that took years and a lot of artworks to attain.

“Conversations” featured a collaborative piece from Kofie and Jaybo. These two artists successfully produced a piece that showcased their two distinct painting styles in congruous compositions. Their styles mixed perfectly in the collaboration as if their minds meld with each other during the painting process. Respect towards each other’s vision is key in doing collaborative works amongst artists and these two, having been friends for a long time, have got that in spades. Mutual respect allowed these two creative individual to merge their concepts with ease. The give and take throughout the show is evident. The entire show is a repartee between these artists’ creative minds; a playful exchange of ideas that uses colors, brushstrokes and textures instead of words.

Be sure to check out the behind the scenes images we got from Kofie and Jaybo’s “Converastions”. We also have an in depth video interview wherein Jaybo and Kofie discussed their processes, working with each other, the hype around graffuturism and many more.