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A Father's Burden (2025)Acrylic painting by Emmanuel Akolo

40.64 x 50.8 x 2.54cm (unframed) / 40.64 x 50.8cm (actual image size)

£363.95

In "A Father's Burden," I delve into the unspoken weight of parenthood, portraying a father carrying his son on his shoulders. Rendered in bold acrylic strokes, the painting contrasts the father’s earthy, sturdy back with the child’s delicate form against a vibrant blue backdrop, symbolizing strength and vulnerability. This juxtaposition reflects the dual nature of caregiving—pride and responsibility intertwined.

Inspired by the quiet sacrifices of familial bonds, the title invites reflection: is the burden literal, emotional, or a cherished duty? The abstracted background, with shadowy waves, hints at time and unseen struggles, encouraging interpretation. Using color and form, I blend realism with emotional abstraction to evoke questions rather than answers, creating a dynamic tension between warm figures and cool blue.

This work, part of my exploration of human connection, invites viewers to ponder the father’s journey, the child’s trust, and the resilient ties that bind them—a celebration of endurance and a meditation on love.

Dedicated to my artist friend and colleague, Mádótì who lost his son on 16th of June , 2025.

May your would rest in peace. Oluwapamilerinayo

Materials used:

Acrylic On Canvas

Details:

Tags:

#love#father#family#death#mother#life#son#heart#hurt#doctor#sickness#disease
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In "A Father's Burden," I delve into the unspoken weight of parenthood, portraying a father carrying his son on his shoulders. Rendered in bold acrylic strokes, the painting contrasts the father’s earthy, sturdy back with the child’s delicate form against a vibrant blue backdrop, symbolizing strength and vulnerability. This juxtaposition reflects the dual nature of caregiving—pride and responsibility intertwined.

Inspired by the quiet sacrifices of familial bonds, the title invites reflection: is the burden literal, emotional, or a cherished duty? The abstracted background, with shadowy waves, hints at time and unseen struggles, encouraging interpretation. Using color and form, I blend realism with emotional abstraction to evoke questions rather than answers, creating a dynamic tension between warm figures and cool blue.

This work, part of my exploration of human connection, invites viewers to ponder the father’s journey, the child’s trust, and the resilient ties that bind them—a celebration of endurance and a meditation on love.

Dedicated to my artist friend and colleague, Mádótì who lost his son on 16th of June , 2025.

May your would rest in peace. Oluwapamilerinayo

Materials used:

Acrylic On Canvas

Details:

Tags:

#love#father#family#death#mother#life#son#heart#hurt#doctor#sickness#disease
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Emmanuel Akolo

Location Canada

About
Akolo Emmanuel Olusegun is a Nigerian-born, Niagara-based visual artist who transitioned from a civil engineering background to a multidisciplinary practice. Working primarily with acrylics and charcoal, he blends expressive brushwork... Read more

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