Young artist gets spiritual in maiden exhibition

A budding young artist has launched his first ever gallery exhibition, Exploring Spirituality, at East Gallery in Stratford.

People can now drop into East Gallery to view the work of East Thames foyer resident Rasheed Kayode Bushura, 24, which includes dramatic prints of paintings that have been digitally manipulated.

Rasheed’s work is surprisingly insightful, influenced by spirituality, religion and culture – resulting in what he feels to be a spiritual adventure, exploring other ways of thinking about the creation of life and our beliefs.

Rasheed has recently completed a degree in graphic arts and illustration and is currently working as a freelance artist and is involved in a variety of youth-led arts projects. In the future he hopes to incorporate other art forms into his practice, such as dance, music and theatre performance, which will help him to convey his messages in different ways.

Rasheed said: “Through my art I want to inspire others to look within, think and challenge their own spirituality and beliefs. Living in the foyer has enabled me to tap in to the resources that their arts and culture programmes offer, giving me a chance to showcase my talent. It has also given me the opportunity to get my own place and continue to strive to become an accomplished artist."

East Thames arts development co-ordinator, Sandra Shakespeare said: “Rasheed has been working on East Thames’ youth arts projects for some time and he has evolved into an inspiring young artist who really stands out from the crowd. His works are insightful, striking and show great potential for Rasheed to become a real local success story.”

To view some of Rasheed’s work visit his blog: www.rasheedbushura.blogspot.com

Exhibition is open to the public 17th January 17th – 11th March, Monday to Friday from 9am – 6pm. The gallery is located on the ground floor of East Thames’ head office, 29 – 35 West Ham Lane, Stratford, E15 4PH.