Beatrice Wanjiku Kenya, b. 1978
132 x 159 cm.
Beatrice Wanjiku's "An Unstructured Mess," echoes the complexities and contradictions inherent in human nature. Wanjiku, known for her grim and intense paintings, offers a striking contrast to her outwardly cheerful demeanor. This work, part of her Straitjacket series, delves into the constraints imposed by societal norms and expectations. The painting resonates with the disturbing intensity of artists like Francis Bacon and Goya, embodying a deep exploration of the human psyche and the perpetual struggle between aspiration and limitation. "An Unstructured Mess," with its dark and profound imagery, stands as a testament to Wanjiku's mastery in capturing the dissonance of the human condition. As reviewed by Frank Whalley in the East African in 2016, “this is a work of museum quality.”