Ismael Tamek: Vibrant African Neo-Expressionism Artworks | Photography by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa

Ismael Tamek in his Abidjan studio on November 3, 2023, surrounded by neo-expressionist artworks, photographed by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.
Born in 1988, Ismael Tamek is an Ivorian-Togolese artist who has been exploring the complexities of human life through his art since 2012. With bold brushstrokes and a distinctive neo-expressionist style, his artworks are a vibrant fusion of texture and narrative. Tamek's creative process is immersive, utilizing techniques like sanding, scraping, washing, and collage to bring depth and raw emotion to his pieces. Drawing inspiration from the elements of nature and the challenges faced by those around him, his paintings embody resilience and hope amidst adversity.
Since his debut exhibition in 2014, Tamek's work has been exhibited across Africa, captivating audiences in Ghana, Morocco, Rwanda, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire. His art not only reflects his personal journey but also the spirit and stories of the African continent, offering viewers a powerful and moving visual experience. Discover more of Ismael Tamek’s vibrant works at LouiSimone Guirandou Gallery and explore his available artworks for purchase.

Ismael Tamek painting a large neo-expressionist canvas outdoors on November 7, 2023, captured by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.

Ismael Tamek in his Abidjan studio on November 3, 2023, surrounded by vibrant neo-expressionist artworks, photographed by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.

Ismael Tamek inspecting a neo-expressionist artwork on the floor of his Abidjan studio on November 3, 2023, photographed by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.

Close-up of Ismael Tamek’s hand touching a neo-expressionist canvas with eye motifs in his Abidjan studio on November 3, 2023, photographed by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.

Ismael Tamek’s paint-covered boots in his Abidjan studio on November 7, 2023, captured by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.

Worn, paint-splattered shoes in Ismael Tamek’s Abidjan studio on November 7, 2023, photographed by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.

Neo-expressionist canvas by Ismael Tamek featuring a face with colorful motifs, photographed in his Abidjan studio on November 14, 2023, by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.

Neo-expressionist canvas by Ismael Tamek featuring floral motifs and a face, photographed in his Abidjan studio on November 14, 2023, by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.

Collection of neo-expressionist canvases by Ismael Tamek displayed on a wall in his Abidjan studio on November 14, 2023, photographed by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.

Close-up of Ismael Tamek’s hand holding a paintbrush in his Abidjan studio on November 3, 2023, captured by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.

Ismael Tamek holding spray paint cans in his Abidjan studio on November 3, 2023, surrounded by neo-expressionist artworks, photographed by Miléquêm Diarassouba, Photojournalist West Africa.
