Born in Senegal in 1985, Alioune Diagne had to overcome many obstacles to pursue his artistic passion. Despite limited access to culture in his youth, his precocious talent for drawing was recognized and encouraged by his teachers and those close to him. This recognition sowed the seeds of an artistic vocation that led him to follow his path to the École des Beaux-Arts in Dakar. Before representing Senegal at the Venice Biennale 2024, he presents Seede, his latest exhibition at Galerie Templon.

Alioune Diagne’s immersion in the art world was a decisive turning point, marked by an unwavering commitment to perfecting his art and creating a unique style. The loss of his grandfather, a beloved and respected figure, was the catalyst for a profound artistic evolution. Through his paintings, Alioune found a way to honor his grandfather’s memory by integrating elements of Arabic calligraphy and personal symbolism into his work. This artistic fusion of the abstract and the figurative has given rise to a distinctive style that captivates attention and provokes questioning: Figuro-abstro.

The artist’s thematic collections reflect his sensitivity to contemporary social and environmental issues. From Senegal’s collective memory to rural exodus and pollution, each series of paintings tells a poignant and engaging story.

Through his work, Alioune seeks to raise public awareness of realities that are often overlooked or ignored, such as the clandestine emigration of young Africans in search of a better future. His paintings act as silent witnesses to these struggles and hopes. Alioune Diagne’s quest for meaning and identity is evident in every brushstroke. His commitment to his art goes beyond mere aesthetic creation to become a means of giving voice to the voiceless and reminding the world of the challenges facing many communities.