Biography
Artist Statement:
Fagaye's work delves into the complexities of human relationships and their dynamics, as well as their connections to global politics. She challenges prevailing narratives, inviting viewers to empathize with her subjects and engage deeply with the stories her art seeks to convey.
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Fagaye’s multidisciplinary approach blends acrylic with oil, watercolor, gold leaf, digital art, and video. She strives to create richly textured works that shimmer with depth and emotional resonance. By combining these diverse mediums, she seeks a visual narrative that speaks to the complexity of human experience.
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Fagaye’s politically themed works explore the human experience through familiarity and curiosity. Rooted in the teachings of Islam and profoundly influenced by her identity as a Black Senegalese-American woman, Fagaye's perspective emerges from a rich tapestry of spiritual and cultural understanding. Her way of life and artistic vision are deeply informed by these intersecting identities, emphasizing the importance of empathy and human connection. Through an anthropological approach, she finds comfort in learning about human beings on both personal and collective levels, allowing her to view the world through a lens of shared humanity and interconnectedness. Through her art, she hopes to contribute to the progression of globalization, inviting viewers to see the world as she does; with compassion, curiosity, and a nuanced understanding of our shared human experience.
Fagaye, an artist born and raised in The Bronx, New York, explores cultural identity, self-reflection, and the intersections of her experiences in her work. Fagaye’s artistic journey began in her early years in Senegal, where she first explored her creativity through traditional art forms and by designing clothes for her dolls. Over time, her practice grew to encompass video and digital media, allowing her to experiment with techniques to express her beliefs and inner world. Fagaye’s diverse exploration of mediums is woven into her storytelling which addresses her personal and cultural narratives, offering a window into her reflections of identity and community.
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Fagaye is currently pursuing dual Bachelor’s degrees in Digital Media Studies, with a concentration in Computer Science, and Studio Arts at the University of Rochester, with an expected graduation in May 2025. Her work has been showcased in prominent venues, including the MoMA Manhattan Borough Arts Fair and Lincoln Center, as well as in digital exhibitions at Sotheby’s. In addition to her own artistic practice, Fagaye has shared her knowledge as a teaching assistant for a pre-college documentary program at, Bronx Community College in collaboration with the Educational Video Center, guiding emerging artists in their craft.
Contact:
CV