Page 4 - Final update Publication 2nd Annual Something JazzZee Exibition The Spirit of Art (7)

Aziz Diagne

My latest work examines the relationship between the mystic and reality at this cru-
cial point in time. Some of These works have evolved out of a recent near-death
experience and reflections during my subsequent healing process. For me art is a
lifelong journey, a daily expression of energy, prayer and a labor of love. It is a
spiritual force that records an experience and preserves
the moment. It has truly been my therapy. It is particularly
comforting at an epoch in which we are experiencing
struggle, protest, and change. Art provides the opportunity
for open discussions that have the possibility of leading us
to a world in which caring for each other reigns eternal.
I am so grateful for all the help and prayers before, during
and after my rehabilitation.
Aziz is a multi-media artist who specializes in print making, glass painting, oil and
acrylics. Through his unique and dynamic talents, Aziz, a self taught artist, estab-
lished himself as one of the premiere contemporary glass painters. Aziz has trav-
eled extensively throughout Africa, Europe and South America, absorbing the art
and cultures of diverse environments. These experiences have greatly enhanced the
artist’s seemingly limitless repertoire and creative energy.
About The Work
Theissoise, reversed painting on glass, is a process that involves applying color to the glass in the exact re-
verse process involved when painting on any other surface. The process is a detailed and painstaking meth-
od as each color is applied separately. Brushes and various other tools are used to give continuity, contrast
and texture to the finished work. Rich in symbolism, the artist’s work captures the spirit and ambiance of the
universal experience.
Other Mediums
Color-graph is a unique art in and of itself. The artist has designed and developed a
printing press that enables him to produce original color graph print with multicolor in a
single run. The illustration is carved from various materials with an illustration board.
Due to the process of extreme pressure being applied in the making of the print, the
plate has very limited use. Each color graph is an original.
Additional mediums include, water color, mixed media and oil.
Accomplishments
• Selected by the National Black Arts Festival to create advertising materials, including
the huge festival billboards and banners that decorated the city of Atlanta during the
two-week event. • Selected as the official artist for the 1995, 1998 and 2003 New Or-
leans Jazz and Heritage Festival, which is one of the most widely attended international festivals.
• In 1995 and 2002, commissioned by the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs to create a commemo-
rative poster for the anniversary edition of the African Marketplace.
• Commissioned artist for the 1996 Olympic Games Cultural Olympiad.
• Works have appeared on several compact disc and book covers for the University of Auburn (St. Martin
Press); Featured in various motion pictures (Antoine Fisher story, directed by Denzel Washington); (Carol Du-
val show on Home and Garden TV); The National Arts Festival 2000
(Featured Artist) Essence Musical Festival 2000; (Featured Artist) Tom Joyner Foundation Annual Fantastic
Voyage
Galleries: La Belle Gallery – New Orleans, LA; Joyce Gordon Gallery – Oakland, CA

www.azizart.com