Echoes of disorder at Nommo Gallery

KAMPALA - The Nommo Gallery in Nakasero has become a vibrant hub of artistic expression, hosting thought-provoking solo exhibitions like Echoes of Disorder by the talented Benjamin Solombi. Running until April 20, 2025, the exhibition delves into the intricate complexities of identity, both personal and collective.

The exhibition presents a powerful collection of semi-abstract paintings, each offering a unique perspective on the human experience.

What sets this exhibition apart is its exploration of the complex, often contradictory, nature of personalities and how they shape the world around us. The pieces capture an essential tension—between individuality and collective existence—challenging viewers to think about their roles within the broader context of society.

One of the standout works in the exhibition is Together in the Fray, a piece that resonates deeply with the exhibition’s central theme.

The painting portrays life as a grand chessboard, with each piece representing an individual navigating their way through the chaos of existence. Solombi likens life to a game of chess, where everyone has a unique role to play, and while the game might appear chaotic, there is an underlying order to the interactions that shape our journeys.

The artist’s fascination with the inherent disorder of life is evident throughout his work, especially in his depiction of identities in flux.

He imagines society as a complex, interwoven puzzle where every piece influences the others, often in ways that are unseen but no less powerful. His use of layered textures, dynamic compositions, and vivid color palettes creates a visual representation of this ongoing tension between order and chaos.

Solombi’s exhibition stands out not just for its thematic depth but also for its aesthetic richness.

His works feature a blend of abstract forms, splashes of color and intricate textures that draw the viewer in, inviting them to engage with the art on both an intellectual and emotional level. The abstract quality of the paintings allows for multiple interpretations.

This fluidity of meaning mirrors the unpredictability of identity itself, as it constantly shifts.

Central to the exhibition’s narrative is the influence of women on Solombi’s artistic process. The artist finds inspiration in the distinct mannerisms and strength of women in his life, particularly in how they navigate the abstract nature of existence.

The title Echoes of Disorder is a reflection of the sophisticated and multifaceted characteristics that women develop in their interactions with the world.

These traits, in turn, become an "echo," shaping their relationships, interactions, and approaches to life. Solombi captures these echoes with remarkable sensitivity.

Solombi’s Echoes of Disorder is more than just a series of paintings; it is a meditation on how we each navigate the abstract nature of life and the profound, often hidden connections that bind us together.

Art lovers and those seeking to explore the complex nature of human identity and interconnectedness will undoubtedly find much to contemplate.