Philosophy has many different meanings; sometimes people tell you about their philosophy of life. They usually mean their deepest and most abiding beliefs or things that guide them to behave or do things in a particular manner. Spirkin (1983) posits that, "philosophy and art differ principally according to their subject-matter and also the means by which they reflect, transform and express it". In a certain sense, art, like philosophy, reflects reality in its relation to humans and depicts humans, their spiritual world, and the relations between individuals in their interaction with the world. Philosophy, as it relates to art, deals with the ideas and beliefs that drive and guide one into the creation of artworks. In this case, philosophy of art seems to be all- encompassing, as ideas could emanate from the artist’s socio-cultural environment, psychological, scientific, and sociological inclinations. Thus, most artists' artworks are driven by ideas and philosophies, and BemiStudi0 is not in isolation when it comes to that.
BemiStudi0’s symbolic series of paintings is philosophically inclined and engages with ideas drawn from existentialism, metaphysics, stoicism, and theological narratives. Through this gamut of works, BemiStudi0 reflects on fundamental questions about human existence and the nature of reality. The paintings explore themes of isolation, power, perception, and the limits of human understanding, presenting them in ways that invite reflection rather than direct answers.
In this series of paintings, BemiStudi0 philosophically attempts to capture life in its totality, even while acknowledging that life itself resists clear definition. Each painting becomes a visual investigation into what it means to exist, to perceive, and to endure within uncertain conditions. Rather than offering fixed meanings, the works remain open-ended, allowing viewers to bring their own experiences and interpretations into the encounter. Thus, the idea of unresolved runs throughout the series, emphasising uncertainty and unanswered questions. BemiStudi0 uses form, space, and symbolism to suggest philosophical positions without settling into a single narrative or conclusion. As a result, the paintings touch on different aspect of philosophical theories while remaining grounded in lived experience. Together, they form a contemplative space where thought, emotion, and belief intersect, reminding us of the complexity and fragility of human existence.
Perspective on Hello?
In the painting titled Hello?, BemiStudi0 depicts a male figure seated on what appears to be a box with an opening that suggests a hole. The male figure is painted in a mint green hue, while the background is painted mainly in dark blue, with other shades of blue, touches of red, and small areas of yellow. The background colours create a sense of tension and reflect the complexity of life. The contrast between the background colours and the mint green tone of the figure strengthens the composition and draws attention to the subject.
One of the striking aspects of the painting is the way the figure’s head is covered with what appears to be an oversized hat that completely hides the face. This disguise removes any clear identity or expression, suggesting anonymity and emotional withdrawal. The seated posture of the figure suggests stress, waiting, and expectation. The figure holds a telephone to the right ear with the right hand, an action that implies an attempt at communication. However, the absence of any visible response heightens uncertainty. As suggested by the title Hello?, the moment captured in the painting feels like a question that remains unanswered. See plate i one for Hello?
Plate i, Hello? Acrylic on Canvas. 2025
Philosophically, Hello? reflects ideas of existential isolation and interpretive relativism. The hidden face suggests the loss of individuality and the difficulty of being truly seen or understood in the modern world. The telephone, which ordinarily represents connection, becomes a symbol of silence and emotional distance. This reflects the human condition in which individuals seek meaning, connection, and reassurance, yet often encounter uncertainty and unanswered questions. Consequently, sometimes in life, despite repeated questioning and effort, answers do not always come. In this sense, the painting captures a moment of suspension, between hope and despair, communication and silence, presence and absence. The painting does not offer a solution but instead invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of waiting, doubt, and unresolved questions. Through its restrained imagery and symbolic elements, Hello? remains faithful to the philosophical spirit of the series, emphasising uncertainty as an essential part of human existence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this review has examined the philosophical inclinations in BemiStudi0’s symbolic series with a focus on the painting Hello?. Drawing from philosophical ideas rooted in existentialism, metaphysics, and interpretive uncertainty, the review shows how BemiStudi0 uses visual language to engage with fundamental questions about human existence, perception, and meaning. Rather than providing clear answers, the painting emphasises ambiguity and unresolved inquiry as central conditions of life. Finally, Hello? underpins the philosophical position that meaning is not fixed but continually shaped by experience and interpretation. By leaving questions unanswered, BemiStudi0 allows space for reflection and personal engagement, encouraging viewers to confront their own uncertainties and unresolved moments. The painting, like the symbolic series as a whole, affirms that uncertainty is not a weakness but a defining aspect of human existence. Through this open-ended approach, BemiStudi0’s work successfully bridges art and philosophy, offering a contemplative space where thought, emotion, and lived experience intersect.
This Piece was written by: Faida Samuel
Critic & Curator
Department of Fine Art
Faculty of Environmental Design
Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
faidasamuel@gmail.com
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