Lot 21

Moses Igan Byesonsa (Ugandan, born 1975)
African Woman, 2008
Signed ‘Byesonsa 08’ (lower right)
Mixed media on canvas
80 x 40.5 cm
KES 130,000 – 230,000
(US$) 1,040 – 1,840
Provenance: Private collection
Sold KES 223,060

Moses Igan Byesonsa is a distinguished freelance artist whose work reflects a profound reverence for both his cultural heritage and his religious upbringing. He draws inspiration largely from the experiences and resilience of women, particularly within the domestic sphere. Through his art, Byesonsa celebrates the strength and nurturing roles women embody within the family, often exploring themes of leadership and perseverance in his visual storytelling.

His painting style uniquely combines conventional and native materials, with a favoured medium of acrylics and oil. Byesonsa’s work often incorporates bold, unmodulated lines and dramatic compositions that echo biblical narratives, skilfully separating subjects from their backgrounds to draw viewers’ focus. This distinctive approach has made his work recognizable and deeply impactful.

Byesonsa’s work has been widely exhibited across Africa, with particularly notable displays in Uganda at Tulifanya Gallery, Afriart Gallery, and Nommo Gallery, among others. He has also participated in major group exhibitions, such as those hosted by the American Embassy, Wildlife and Nature Conservation (1999), and Young Artists (1999) at Nommo Gallery. His influence and dedication continue to inspire admiration, positioning him as a key figure in Uganda’s art scene and a steadfast advocate for cultural preservation through the arts.