Anehita Aletor

Anehita is recognised for participating in various solo and group exhibitions, as well as collaborations with Leadworks, Arts University Plymouth and the Crisis charity in the city, just to name a few. Gaining inspiration from significant historical art movements, Aletor developed a keen interest in art from an early age. 

Aletor is also heavily involved in the co-ordination and curation of creative events and workshops, extending to the mentorship of children and young adults; actively encouraging them to pursue their artistic passions. In recent years, she has been on a personal research journey, studying reformation art businesses in accordance with modern technology and e-commerce. Made in Plymouth Community Reporter, Issy Herring, interviewed Anehita to find out more.

Would you be able to tell me a bit more about yourself and your artwork?

I am a self-taught artist based in Plymouth. Most of my works are mainly acrylic paintings, others in oil, watercolour, pastel and graphite. I have seasoned works in mixed media. I would say my works are a juxtaposition of my interest in contemporary pop art, surrealism and dadaism. I create dreamlike artistic expressions that depict human emotions, unpopular opinions and stories to resonate with anyone anywhere in the world. My passion draws me to places with culture, creativity and positive impact such as creative business ventures, talent management, community development and charities.

Where do you get inspiration from for your paintings? Has any inspiration come from Plymouth at all?

I see everything as art and existence itself as a masterpiece by a divine creator. I am easily pleased with beautiful or intriguing sights, people, history, cultural values and nature; this drives me to replicate and express my perceptions from the heart for viewers to engage with their own thought process. Plymouth has been a place where I am freely in my creative element and has inspired some of my recent works. One of them is titled ‘Not Far-Fetched’. It has features of the Royal William Yard and the ocean. I enjoy taking sneak peaks at the art works of students at both universities at Drake Circus when I get the chance.

What made you become interested in art initially? What was your personal journey from completing your banking and finance degree to becoming an artist? Have you always had a creative passion?

I come from a lineage of creatives. My mum Pricilla Aletor is an arts professor, she always encouraged my creativity. My favourite place to be was in her studio. I was in awe of her works, and I would gaze at all her art history books and encyclopaedias even before I could read. That was where I fell in love with different art, history and culture, but I sort of shied away from it till recent years because I felt artists were stereotyped. I was concerned about the prospects and availability of opportunities for artists, thus I just wanted to be like any other regular kid. 

I hadn't painted for many years, only did a few scribbles and sketched plans. I channelled my creativity towards other endeavours such as interior decor, event planning, art directing, costume design and makeup, whilst harbouring a great sense of guilt in my heart for such a long time. On the other side of things, I also had a flare for business practices, management and development. After my first degree in banking and finance, I had 9-5 jobs in finance and management in diverse sectors and I was always noted for taking the lead in contributing ideas and advocating for innovation and creativity. Being an artist has always helped me to think outside the box. The downside of this could be my eccentricity. However, most of the time it produced good results. 

I got my eureka moment and my passion ignited in 2018 when I was invited to a Paint and Sip event by my peers. After that, I decided to give art a try. Being curious and eager to learn new things, I started visiting studios, galleries, exhibitions and landmarks. I observed my mum and other artists, studied art history, mastered my processes and made countless experiments - most of which would have been mistakes but became a discovery of unique techniques. I started taking bolder steps, moving from my sketch books to canvases, sharing my art journey via social media and gaining encouraging audiences. Then I took a chance at hosting my solo show and getting involved in the boisterous art and entertainment scene of Lagos, Nigeria. I started getting commissioned by galleries and collectors internationally. Art ever since became a therapeutic and profitable outlet for me to offload the creative overload in my heart.

My initial plan was to study arts toward a PHD, but opted for a different approach with a decision to bridge the professional gaps between finance and art by studying for a masters degree in business and management - operations and global supply chain at the University of Plymouth with a sole purpose of gaining insights on how to apply reformed business practices to the art, culture, tourism and entertainment industries,  earn the right network and gain resources to support my research in the field of visual arts and technology. 

What was it like being involved in the Solo Artist Collaboration? 

The term ‘Another solo artist’ and ‘artist at sunset' started as a moniker given to me by friends because I enjoy painting particularly at nighttime. It also spurns out from my uncertainties and my struggles with will power to showcase my works against the urge to hide them. After finding my ground, I had people in the same predicament reaching out to share their hidden talents and passion for art. Most of them are professionals in other fields who somewhat lost interest in harnessing their gift because of the seeming divide in the acceptance of self-taught artists and art academicians.

I started the Solo Artist Collaboration from hosting small events for the like-minded in cozy venues like restaurants and lounges, attracting other creatives such as writers, poets, thespians and singers. I got them involved in my solo exhibitions to give them platforms to showcase their talents. I organised Paint and Sip events, art classes for both adults and children and mentorship programmes. I extended this service to charitable and humanitarian causes such as the Charly Boy Foundation to support artists and creatives in Nigerian prisons, as well as the Irie Vibes Festival and live art events for Ovarian cancer awareness. I have also been involved in art initiatives for the Shelter crisis in Plymouth, as well as collaborations with institutions such as state councils, financial institutions and in the media and entertainment.

How important is it for local artists to get the opportunity to be promoted for their work? 

It's important for local artists to be supported by their communities, even amidst efforts towards environmental sustainability. Coping with impact of COVID-19 and rapid technological changes, it is essential to focus on issues such as preserving mental well-being and unemployment to counter the global wave of depression and the loss of human talent. Originality, mastery, and personalised human effort should be celebrated by promoting opportunities for local creatives as part of corporate social responsibility and sustainable community development. This inclusion can ensure that creatives and their work are visible, valued, and their identities are recognized and respected.

It is so important to express cultural diversity in society. How do you feel your Nigerian heritage has impacted your creative work?

The expression of cultural diversity keeps us grounded in our realities, our uniqueness and the beauty of who we are. The presence of cultural diversity brings about the feeling of equality, acceptance and welcome. This is essential for community development as it motivates the confidence of individuals to positively participate in their community.

I grew up in Benin City Nigeria, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. I would say the impact of Nigerian Heritage on my work are the details and intricacies seen within Nigerian art and artifacts. I have a deep sense of appreciation for the significance of their values and the stories they tell.  They inspired a series of folkloric works that provoke a different perspective to the norms. I also find the current adaptive sarcastic humour of Nigerians amidst unique experiences highly inspiring for most of my expressive figurative works.

Are there any particular artists that you are personally fond of or inspired by? Any local Plymouth based creatives you would recommend? 

Most certainly. I love the works of Beryl Cook. Her works resonate the carefree nature of the legendary artist. The bursts of colour and the comical representation of societal living, values and challenge of opinions inspire and motivate me to keep at my genre. 

What do you think of Plymouth in a creative and personal sense? 

Plymouth is a beautiful place, pleasing to the eyes. I'm constantly fascinated by its landscape and the whimsical charm of the ancient remains from centuries within the city, villages and countryside. Plymouth has been a place where I get to recalibrate and safely raise my family. The cobbled streets and architecture of the Barbican offer a captivating glimpse into the everyday lives of modern people, set against a picturesque backdrop of the sea and naval memorials. Every time I visit it feels like the past and present coexist in perfect harmony. Not to make comparison to other larger and industrial cities, I find that Plymouth has a unique art appreciation culture with people, groups and institutions working together in the communities to preserve nature which itself is art. I look forward to the completion of the renovation of the works and installations at the city centre. 

Can you recommend any particular places to visit in the city? 

The first place I always recommend is the seaside. It is a beautiful view that has a calming effect on Plymothians and visitors. It is a place that conditions my mood anytime I go there. It is such a good spot to meditate and ease out. Plymouth for summer is a good bargain with a lineup of fun activities. I enjoy going to The Box to see interesting historical artifacts and activities and I find the moors very intriguing. I admit that there is a lot of natural beauty in this environment. Of course, the boisterous Barbican area and its restaurants – it is always so alive, cultural and colourful. 

I'm really fond of your painting collection 'The Joker Series'. Would you be able to tell me a bit about this series of artworks?

There is so much to say about the Joker series. It is more than just canvas and paint to me. It depicts sarcastic humour and uncomfortable truths. Inspired by the Pierrot clowns of vintage European theatre, the series primarily features acrylic paintings of delicate, feminine buffoon-like characters adorned with scarves and fabrics to accentuate their blouses. Poker playing cards are incorporated to illustrate the narrative that life is a game of cards with the Joker symbolised as a clown.

Traditions around the world have their versions of this character serving similar purposes. For example, in Nigerian folklore there's a Bini adage that says, “If you want to tell a king the truth, send the message through the court jester.” This series includes different variants of jokers from selected cultures. The series aims to artistically express human emotions, the effects of societal standards and values and their impact on the state of mind. It individualises the Joker as everyday people wearing both seen and unseen masks while navigating life's stage, constantly changing costumes and masks to either hide or reveal resilience, self-doubt, imposter syndrome, mental health issues, and concealed instincts.

The Joker series portrays masked emotions and identities, illustrating life as a game and theatre where everyone wears a mask—sometimes the mask is who we are, and sometimes it’s who we wish to be.

Your sketches are also very impressive. What led you to create artwork inspired by celebrity figures? 

Thanks again - this collection originates from my sketchbook, featuring pieces I did before moving on to canvases. It was a hobby in my spare time as a way to refine my techniques. I enjoy singing along and listening to music while I create, and this series emerged from a spontaneous decision to draw the singer or actor. 

Do you prefer working with acrylics or with mixed media? Any particular media you prefer?

Though most of my works are in acrylic, I do enjoy the outcome of my efforts at giving life, depth and texture to art with 3D-like effects. 

Where have you previously shown your work? Anywhere locally?

Most of my previous engagement has been in Lagos, Nigeria and a solo exhibition in New York in 2018. In the UK after my studies, I focused on commissioned pieces. I did some paintings for a music video shoot in London (like a queen project), as well as the Making a Change workshop at the Arts University Plymouth and the Leadworks exhibition ‘Unveiling Homelessness - Art for a Cause’ in Stonehouse, Plymouth. 

What do you hope to achieve through your artistry? 

 I intend to continue creating art that speaks to a wide and vast audience and of course, gain appreciation and value for my works just like every other artist aspires. I hope to give back by discovering means to illuminate the pathways for fellow creatives to succeed.

What advice would you give to fellow creatives in the city?

Creativity knows no bounds. It is a reason why creatives should always stay true to themselves and embrace their uniqueness. Let your art transcend time and witness its evolution. Keep doing what you love as passion has always been a tonic for life. It is okay to monetise your art, and it is advantageous to adapt to trends and technology reforms in art business networking, marketing, promotion and visibility of your art.

Finally, what are your future creative endeavours?

To keep creating and advocating for the inclusion of creatives which involves the infusion of art in diverse sectors. I would also love to be more involved in Plymouth’s art industry.

Keep up to date with Anehita Aletor’s artistic projects via her Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/anothersoloartist/.