"Amsterdam-Based Artist Lenny Presents: On the Move - Solo Debut at Melkweg"

Can you tell us about your background and what led you to become an artist? Can you talk a bit about your creative journey?

Since childhood, I’ve frequently visited museums and spent a lot of time playing with Lego. This urge to create continued with art classes in high school, where I found joy and peace in drawing. I kept this up for several years. In 2022, after completing a non-creative vocational program, I started studying interior architecture at an art school. There, I learned drawing techniques that helped me make significant progress in my drawings and paintings in a short time. At the beginning of 2023, I began taking painting more seriously and had my first exhibition during the Museumnacht 2023 event at Sankofa Archives. I saw how people reacted to my art; some found the paintings beautiful, while others could relate to them on a personal level. This feedback motivated me to continue. After two years of studying higher vocational education, I decided to stop because I realized I preferred painting over architecture. I hope to study Fine Arts next year to further improve my work.

How have your past experiences prepared you for this solo exhibition?

At Sankofa Archives, I’ve helped set up exhibitions multiple times, and these experiences have greatly influenced how I approach organizing my own. Last year, I even organized an exhibition at Patta. These opportunities have taught me a lot and are now guiding me as I prepare for my next exhibition.

What inspired you to create ‘On The Move’?

Movement was a recurring theme in many of my recent works. So as a challenge for myself, I thought it would be interesting to explore this theme further for this exhibition.

What does ‘On The Move’ mean to you?

‘On The Move’ reflects daily life, where we are constantly on the go—not just physically, but also in a deeper,

metaphorical sense. It symbolizes the ongoing evolution and progress in our consciousness and personal development.

What has been a key moment in your artistic development that led to this solo show?

Fleurie from Melkweg Expo saw my work during the Sankofa Archives Museumnacht at Kazerne. She told me she really liked it and asked if I would be interested in doing an exhibition at Melkweg Café.

How has your artistic style evolved over time?

Initially, before I started painting, I mainly drew with pens or fineliners. I created many portraits and sketched things from my surroundings that interested me, like album covers or the metro. My drawings became increasingly realistic, just like my paintings.

Can you share a memorable moment you’ve had with Sankofa Archives related to your work?

A memorable moment for me was during Museumnacht 2023, when I participated in an exhibition about 'Third Culture Identities' alongside other artists. Thaniel, the founder of Sankofa Archives, encouraged me to create a painting specifically for the exhibition, which ultimately became 'Metro 55.' That night, seeing how people responded to the artwork inspired me to continue painting.

Are there specific artists or movements that have influenced your work?

I draw inspiration from many forms of art. Whether it’s the visual style or the underlying concepts, various aspects can be inspiring. Kerry James Marshall is one artist who has greatly influenced me. He creates beautiful, clear paintings that represent Black individuals.

What do you hope viewers take away from your solo show?

I hope that people who may not often engage with art, because they feel disconnected from it, will realize that it is indeed possible to relate to art. This might spark their interest in exploring it further.