With ‘Flames of Nostalgia,’ Hanson Okere Ups the Ante

Emmanuel  Ndogo

Hanson Chidozie Okere, a talented Lagos-based artist widely recognised for his remarkable flame-carving technique, also referred to as pyrography or wood burning, has long fascinated audiences. The Rivers State  native’s innovative technique of intricately etching elaborate motifs on wood using specialised tools creates a powerful and unforgettable visual impact on those who view his work.

Acknowledged for his industry, Okere has risen to prominence in the art world. His latest solo exhibition, titled Flames of Nostalgia, opened on Saturday, May 11, at Rele Gallery in Ikoyi, Lagos. Hosted by the Rele Arts Foundation, this exhibition marked a milestone in his promising career.

The exhibition features Okere’s signature monochromatic compositions with vintage aesthetics, forming a captivating visual narrative that seamlessly transitions viewers between contemporary times and nostalgic memories of the past. The profound sense of unity, joy, and strength depicted in Okere’s artwork resonates with the black community, celebrating resilience and vibrancy through thoughtful expression.

Okere’s artistic path began as a child, and his passion for creative expression has grown with time. With unrelenting persistence, he pursued his dream of becoming an artist, dedicating himself to polishing his abilities and creating the exquisite attention to detail that distinguishes his work. He was born in 1993 and graduated from the University of Port Harcourt with a bachelor’s degree in art.

Okere’s artistic activities seek to expose the intricate layers of human existence, depicting the varied facets of life with transparency and depth. His artwork serves as a vehicle for portraying the core of human emotions, hardships, and successes, eliciting intense thought and introspection in his audience.

His mastery of pyrography, a laborious art form that requires accuracy and a steady hand to carve intricate designs into wood surfaces using heated tools, demonstrates his passion and patience as an artist. Okere has honed this precise trade over the years, transforming ordinary pieces of wood into captivating works of art that vibrate with the flickering energy of fire.

Each piece produced by the artist attests to his dedication to his artistic vision and mission to communicate the rich stories and experiences of the black community via his emotive creativity. His carvings capture the essence of fire, infusing warmth, energy, and reminiscence into each piece, resulting in an immersive experience that emotionally resonates with viewers. His devotion and talent continue to push the limits of artistic expression, transporting audiences on a thrilling journey through memory, identity, and cultural heritage.

“Most times, it takes up to a month to produce a piece of artwork,” the artist disclosed in an interview. “And patience is the key to that. I try as much as possible to give microscopic and meticulous attention to details in order for me to achieve a fabulous piece of artwork.”

After taking part in a number of local exhibitions, his current professional goal is to be recognised internationally. Even as a young man, he has done remarkably well for himself, given his efforts in the last few years.

• Ndogo writes from Lagos