In this episode, I speak with self-taught Nigerian artist Barry Yusufu who works with gradated charcoal drawing techniques and boldly colored acrylic paints to create his iconic works that reflect both a deep-rooted Christian faith and an intense desire to elevate the image of African men and women in art. 

Barry cites his work as an intense desire to reflect the modern African as an opportunity to foster an evolution of Africanness. He takes on the challenge of shattering the stereotypes and clichés associated with African imagery through his portraiture.

We also talk about;

• his unconventional path to starting his art career
• his struggle with depression and finding his purpose
• his interest in storytelling and his use of bronze skin to represent royalty 
• learning to use his work to speak on social issues 
• experiencing rejection 

You can connect with Barry at https://www.instagram.com/barryyusufu/