1985 | Stanley Onah I Original Oil Painting

£1,475.00

Original Oil and oil Pastel On Linen Lined Board, Tray Framed

Size: 61cm x 49cm x 4.8cm

Part of the “From Ancient Braids, To Contemporary Fades” Collection 2025

1985 captures the swagger and seismic energy of a decade when music, fashion, and identity collided in bold new ways. Against a backdrop of urban rhythm and cultural awakening, Onah’s subject embodies the defiant spirit of a generation discovering its voice. With a curl and street-ready style, he channels the aesthetic codes of early hip-hop, a look that was as declarative as the lyrics blasting from the speakers.

This was the era when rap surged from neighbourhood block parties to global stages, when artists like Ice Cube turned raw experience into social commentary and controversy. Through Onah’s lens, the moment feels electric: sound made visible, style made statement. Within From Ancient Braids to Contemporary Fades, 1985 marks a turning point, a celebration of self-expression forged through rhythm, resistance, and the unyielding confidence of youth.

Original Oil and oil Pastel On Linen Lined Board, Tray Framed

Size: 61cm x 49cm x 4.8cm

Part of the “From Ancient Braids, To Contemporary Fades” Collection 2025

1985 captures the swagger and seismic energy of a decade when music, fashion, and identity collided in bold new ways. Against a backdrop of urban rhythm and cultural awakening, Onah’s subject embodies the defiant spirit of a generation discovering its voice. With a curl and street-ready style, he channels the aesthetic codes of early hip-hop, a look that was as declarative as the lyrics blasting from the speakers.

This was the era when rap surged from neighbourhood block parties to global stages, when artists like Ice Cube turned raw experience into social commentary and controversy. Through Onah’s lens, the moment feels electric: sound made visible, style made statement. Within From Ancient Braids to Contemporary Fades, 1985 marks a turning point, a celebration of self-expression forged through rhythm, resistance, and the unyielding confidence of youth.

  • Native Londoner, Onah’s practice is influenced by his blended British/Nigerian heritage – exuding a strength and grit that speaks to London’s underground art scene. His use of colour and understanding of light oozes connections to the rich tapestry and texture of traditional Nigerian art. His portraits, often starkly back-lit or drenched in a ‘golden hour’ haze allow him to capture a pure emotive dialogue with the viewer.

    Onah’s early fascination with comic book artistry is prevalent in his works with a clear nod to artists such as Frank Miller & Dave Gibbons; this marriage of polar aesthetics have allowed Onah to shape an unmistakable visual identity evident in each painting.

    Onah’s latest series delves deep into the human psyche, reflecting the intricate emotional landscape experienced in the aftermath of trauma. Drawing from both personal and observed encounters, the artist invites viewers on a journey of contemplation, welcoming them in, to explore life’s profound questions and discover beauty within the depths of the human spirit.

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