Orphelia Arilala, a Madagascan artist, has been making waves in the art scene with her unique style of expression. Born out of her experiences and emotions, her artwork is a reflection of her inner world. With a background in psychology, Arilala's art is deeply rooted in her understanding of human emotions and behavior. Her journey as an artist began at a young age, when she would spend hours drawing and creating in her notebooks.

Arilala's art is characterized by her use of Chinese ink, which she feels most comfortable with. Her drawings are a form of self-expression, where she allows her instincts to guide her creative process. The result is a series of abstract forms that take shape and convey emotions and states of mind. According to Arilala, her artwork is not about creating realistic representations but about tapping into her inner world and expressing the intangible.

Arilala's experiences in art therapy have had a profound impact on her work. During her internship in art therapy, she met a patient who had a significant influence on her artistic style. This encounter not only shaped her approach to art but also inspired her to explore the therapeutic potential of creative expression. Arilala's art is not just about creating aesthetically pleasing pieces but also about using art as a tool for self-discovery and healing.

Recently, Arilala was part of a collective exhibition titled "Fahafahana Maneho" (Expression Libre), which showcased the work of several artists and designers. The exhibition was born out of a visit to the home of Donné Vonjy in Alasora, where the artists felt a strong connection to the space. The result was a collection of eight unique pieces that reflected the individual styles of the artists, while also showcasing their collective creativity.

Arilala is also part of a collective called Les Recycl'arts, which aims to make art more accessible and inclusive. The collective's focus is on using art as a tool for social change, with a particular emphasis on empowering women and marginalized communities. Through their work, Les Recycl'arts hopes to create a more vibrant and diverse art scene in Madagascar.

As an artist, Arilala is constantly looking for new ways to express herself and push the boundaries of her creativity. She is currently experimenting with different mediums, including wood and wire, and is excited about the possibilities that these new materials offer. With her unique style and commitment to using art for social change, Arilala is an artist to watch in the years to come.

Arilala's journey as an artist is a testament to the power of creative expression and the impact that it can have on individuals and communities. Her work serves as a reminder that art is not just about aesthetics but also about using our talents and skills to make a positive difference in the world. As she continues to grow and evolve as an artist, Arilala's work will undoubtedly inspire and uplift others.

Key points

  • Orphelia Arilala's art is influenced by her background in psychology and her experiences in art therapy.
  • Arilala's artwork is characterized by her use of Chinese ink and abstract forms that convey emotions and states of mind.
  • Arilala is part of a collective called Les Recycl'arts, which aims to make art more accessible and inclusive in Madagascar.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.