YEANZI

Yeanzi is an Ivorian artist and graduate of the National School of Fine Arts in Abidjan. Known for his distinctive technique using melted plastic, his work blends historical, memorial, and utopian themes. He describes himself as an aesthete and intellectual, using art as a tool for critical expression, prioritising substance over form.

His three major series — Persona, Projections, and Colloquium — explore memory, identity, and society. Personareflects on the individual’s relationship with self and memory, while Projections addresses encounters with others and collective identity. Colloquium responds to these reflections through philosophical and historical references, aiming to revive forgotten narratives.

Yeanzi draws on ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, traditional iconographies, and historical elements to enrich his visual language. His recent work engages with the legacy of Frédéric Bruly Bouabré, promoting the integration of African knowledge systems into education.

A keen observer of social change, Yeanzi sees his art as a space for preserving essential, timeless memories against fleeting trends. His participation in the Côte d’Ivoire Pavilion at the 59th Venice Biennale stands as a significant milestone, affirming the consistency and depth of his approach. His work has also been exhibited widely in galleries and institutions across Africa and internationally, further establishing his reputation as a thoughtful and innovative voice in contemporary art.