Artist Feature: CESAR NGABO DESIRE [Issue VII]

Words by Rosa Dere

Who is Cesar Ngabo Desire?

Spirited, skilled and sincere are only a few words to describe the upcoming artist.

Cesar Ngabo Desire is a visual artist creating honest work celebrating Black people, culture and Afrofuturism. His work takes the form of digital illustration, paint and photography.

Desire explores pop society, turning it into an intriguing globe of bold colours, textures and prints. Uplifted and inspired by Black culture his work brings together those who articulate a healthy relationship with life. His work features characters from music artists and film stars to raw beautiful women and men. Connecting with viewers who understand the concept of cultural aesthetic. Nudity can be expected in his magnetic work.

Initially wanting a career as an animator or concept artist for games and comic books, Desire is an emerging influencer of the new era inspired to push boundaries within art representing Black Africans. Gaining over forty thousand fans from around the world on Instagram his artwork has gathered many praises including A-list celebrities from Jaden Smith to Tory Lanez.

Although the story of this young artist may sound like a typical teenager graduating from high school and attending college- his work is very far from the norm. The now Manila, Philippines based artist, illustrator and photographer never received any formal art classes or training until he moved to Manila for college. The naturally skilled creative became aware of his talent while he moved into his college life. Previously Desire explored a range of mediums such as vector art, abstract art and figure drawing, until he set his heart heavy on digital and traditional art.

Staying true to his vision and beliefs of shedding light on communities of Black Africans, Desire has collaborated with ‘Black Excellence’ streetwear. He designed a collection of unisex t-shirts featuring some of his most popular print images. Taking baby steps into the fashion industry was yet another strong method to expand his parameters as an artist and creative designer.

The ability to demonstrate artistic talents through different tools and paths is a significant skill to hold for any artist. Especially important now when new materials and platforms are surfacing, as an artist it’s key to either adapt or rebel against them. Choosing either direction is a rewarding performance for any audience, if done in a creative and careful manner. On this occasion Desire must be applauded for taking on the fashion industry and continuously growing his already very successful portfolio. However, his pool of talent does not end there for the young man who has recently started producing music beats. Sharing his newly taken journey into the music world it’s clear to see Desire is keen to be involved across the creative industry.

As Desire paints his triumph, his artistic abilities hold a strong message. It’s clear he wants to be able to touch the internal thoughts of the views that see his craft. Build an interior connection with those in the presence of his work.

Take his painting of Michael B Jordon as Black Panther, ranked, as one of his most liked social media images. The sharp eyes and contrast of colours on this particular work is striking. The energy screams power and strength to anyone who has set eyes on this image. The intricate details are clean, but not simple. For Cesar it has never been simple, his work is transparent and prominent by placing key figures from history, politics and music as the focus of his ambiguous art work. With each brushstroke mark on the canvas, he offers self-confidence and empowerment to all characters featured.

Private buyers can also pay for commissioned artwork, in which they automatically become the almighty painted on a canvas of their own body and face. Desire’s bright and detailed interpretations show his persistent pure motives to empower Black culture and help the audience connect with their experiences. He addresses the representation of Black beauty, sexuality and power in today’s world.

Focusing majority of his work heavy on digital art, he really does create masterpiece that viewers want to take home with them. For artists like Desire, digital art has provided a valuable platform of unlimited experimental possibilities in their practise. Artists can use digital art mediums to demonstrate their skillset using unconventional tools and expand their ideas outside of traditional methods.

The entire collection holds powerful pieces of work, every component of which is filled with its own story to tell. In every art piece it’s clear to see the artist attempt to speak to those standing on the other side of the frame. Lighting a passage to those who may be looking for some courage and motivation.

Having gained a strong social media following of nearly forty two thousand people world wide, by the name of ‘Cesar_does_it’ he continues to share his artwork and upcoming projects with his fans each day.

What is next for Cesar Ngabo Desire?

Desire is defiantly rare in rendering paint against canvas and digital illustration, but what really sets his work apart is its celebratory soul, that each piece of work showcases. Desire’s work offers inspiration, interest and thought. From here onwards he will continue to invite the audience on to a trip through his artwork, photographs and designs, for those who join prepare to encounter a thrilling journey

Follow @Cesar_does_it

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