Meet Ibi Meier-Oruitemeka of Studio IMO
Ibi Meier-Oruitemeka (IMO) is a self taught artist based in the UK. Ibi began painting for the first time in May 2024 and immediately felt a deep affinity with acrylics paints as a tool of soulful expression.
Drawing inspiration from her British Nigerian identity, her work often explores themes related to human connection and solitude. Browse the Studio IMO art collection available on Great Big Canvas.
Q&A Interview with Studio IMO
What does your creative process look like from first start to finish?
I work organically and intuitively, treating the canvas as an invitation to play. I don't tend to pre-plan any works, instead I prefer to step into the unknown and see what unfolds during the process. I'm impulsive so working with acrylic paints suits me as I make adjustments and pivot when I need to without drawn out waiting times. I usually get into my flow quite quickly, ideas form as I go along, I love to paint for hours at a time.
How do you know when a piece is truly finished?
I know a work is finished when I'm no longer compelled to tweak or add to it. Often I feel a restlessness that indicates that it's not quite there yet. The absence of this feeling lets me know I'm done.
How has your relationship with your own earlier work changed over time?
Having started painting for the first time just 2 years ago there isn't much distance between my early and current works. I started with an exploration of Black figures and my art is still very much rooted in this. I'm proud that I have been able to connect to my artistic voice in my 40s, and believe that having started later on this path has detached me from any expectation of myself beyond the act of painting. There's a freedom that I'm able to hold onto that I'm pretty sure would have evaded me in my youth.
Has the rise of social media changed how you think about audience?
When I first began sharing my work it wasn't for an audience as I had no followers. Instead I saw it as a useful way to document and look back on my progress as I explored how to paint, a visual diary. Fortunately for me people have gravitated towards my work and taken an interest in my story. It allowed me to realize early on that I didn't necessarily need to pursue an audience instead I remained focused on creating and trusted that people would tune in if it resonated with them in some way.
We’re grateful to Ibi Meier-Oruitemeka for sharing more about her creative process, inspiration and work. Browse Studio IMO's artwork on Great Big Canvas.
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