Art Madrid'24 – Ajarb Bernard Ategwa – New Design 2 (2024)
about Ajarb Bernard Ategwa
Camerún, 1988
Ajarb Bernard Ategwa, born in 1988 in Kumba, Cameroon, is a self-taught visual artist currently residing and working in Douala, Cameroon. Starting his artistic journey in 1998 with plywood illustrations, Ajarb's career as a painter unfolded. Upon relocating to Douala in 2001, exposure to the works of artist Hako Hankson at the French Cultural Centre introduced him to a new dimension of painting, inspiring his artistry. Ajarb's oeuvre intricately captures the essence of street life, portraying the vibrant, industrious, and diverse facets of urban existence. His work delves into the chaotic urban landscape, revealing moments of daily life where tranquility and respite counterbalance the frenetic pace of contemporary existence. Ajarb skillfully depicts the contrast between the bustling energy of public spaces and the suspended moments of truth when characters pause. His artistic language, reminiscent of Pop Art, exhibits influences from luminaries like Jackson Pollock and Damien Hirst, evident in the profusion of color. Ajarb has showcased his creations in numerous solo and group exhibitions globally, with representation by esteemed galleries such as Jack Bell Gallery London, Peres Projects Gallery Berlin, Fredric Snitzer Gallery Miami, and OOA Gallery Barcelona. His work has graced prestigious fairs including Art Basel, FIAC, Expo Chicago, and Frieze. Notably, Ajarb's pieces are featured in renowned collections such as the Chazen Museum of Art, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Pérez Art Museum Miami, and Zuzeum Art Centre.