DARLINGTON D. IKE
Master of Mixed-Media
Sitting with Darlington Dike Ike on any given day is like riding the rapids. A man of many mediums, he is known for using a variety of techniques and media, creating a style all his own. Whatever the medium - acrylics, watercolors, beads, bells, fiberglass or resins - his unique style combining random spontaneity with splatters of realistic objects is easily recognized.
D. D. Ike is a graduate of The School of Art and Design, Auchi Polytechnics, one of the best art schools in Nigeria, West Africa. His works have been exhibited in prominent galleries all over the world. Also to his credit are several local and international awards including:
2004 - Most Unique Art Work - 35th New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival
1999 - 1st Place in 2 Dimensional Art - Blue Ribbon Affairs, Mable House Art Fest
1997 - Best of Show - South Wildwood Beach Art Exhibition, New Jersey;
1985 - The Ambassador's Best Student Award in General Arts - United States Embassy in Nigeria, West Africa.
I personally perform all the creative aspects involved in my mixed media art, which is accomplished with six stages for each production. The process begins with an idea of a drawn object on a working plyboard, using rubber natural clay for modeling the object. The process continues by making a mold of plaster of paris and casting the object in fiberglass and resin, which is then transferred to another plyboard for finishing.
My technique for the actual painting involves using polyester to create textures on the ply board, which is then painted with acrylic colors. I finish each piece using a select variety of beads, ornaments, etc., to create vibrant, colorful effects.
I do all of this work, without the use of any assistants or apprentices. Great caution is used while producing my work. The materials used, such as fiberglass, resin and polyester, are toxic, and arc therefore, very harmful to one's health. No foundry or printing lab is used in my process.
My mixed media is designed to tantalize all five senses through artistic expression, which is to the delight of one's sense of taste, smell, touch. sound and sight.
Artist's Statement
"My art is merely an extension of who and what I am. I can only sculpt, paint or produce my experiences, and for that, I thank God...
Because, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me;
For allowing me to capture the special moment, that feeling and mood: transcending time; For elevating the Spirit, and for the way Sunlight dances across a field of flowers...
Most of all I praise god; the Creator of all that inspires me to Mix-Mediarize."
This is my Quest
Please feel free to ask questions about my mixed - media process. Have a happy viewing.
