Interview with Jordan Awori
1. Please tell us something about your background and your art journey so far.
Interior decorator and stylist etc.
2. Describe what a normal day looks like as an artist.
Normal? Normal is boring and I don’t do boring. No day is the same really and I love it. I do try and create some structure with certain days being dedicated to creating or conceptualising artworks, others for applications and all those admin stuff (that yes, we artists are not except from it) and days where I have to meet with other artists and peers or go to check out an exhibition to just exchange ideas and get inspiration.
3. Can you tell us more about the theme in your art and your inspiration?
As an activist artist all my art is a social commentary of our times. From race to queer issues, From self identity to depression, nothing is off the table as long as I feel compelled to “talk” about it. I am constantly saying that it’s not what I do, it's why I do it! And thats a big reason why I am an interdisciplinary artist as I begin with the message and then figure out how best to relay it, be it through film, or a collage or a painting. But the why is always first…the how just follows organically.
4. How does your art life impact other parts of your life?
When I tackle tough topics they do tend to personally affect my mood and my view of the world. I start felling this despair that maybe everything will not be all right, maybe things will never change. And I also start doubting myself and whether my art is strong or impactful enough to create some small ripple. To get at least one person thinking. It is bound to happen, I guess. As artists we are bearing our souls in our work, or atleast I am, and this vulnerability is tough. But it is really worthwhile when the piece is done and all those negative thoughts just disappear as I look at the work and the role it has to play in the world. It's like a parent who does their best to raise their child well and when it's time to let them go into the world you hope that they will play their part to make it a better place. That's exactly how I feel about every piece I do. They give me hope!!!
5. Tell us about your best experience in the art world so far.
Honestly just being an artist in itself is a brilliant experience. I love what I do, even the hard parts of this profession would never take away from the joy and satisfaction I get from it. But if I really had to pick just one moment it would be the day I decided to become a full time artist. I actually celebrate that anniversary every year…cheesy I know but hey, if we celebrate wedding anniversaries and birthdays why not professional ones.
6. What practical advice can you give to fellow artists?
Do you!
7. What are you working on at the moment and are there any upcoming events you would like to talk about?
Three projects:
TABAKA FILM: project aims to address the often simplified portrayal of LGBTQ+ identities, especially within non-Western contexts like Kenya, where the narratives are influenced by Western perspectives.
OURFRANKFURT: an innovative and collaborative art project with my art collective which aims to celebrate the rich cultural diversity and unity within Frankfurt by capturing the unique perspectives and favorite spots of its residents.
CHINI YA MAJI EXHIBITION: Working on artworks for an exhibition opening in august. Don't want to reveal too much about this but just to give you a hint these works will be the most vulnerable I’ve allowed myself to be as an artist.
Website: https://jordanawori.com
social media: https://www.instagram.com/jordanawori/