Ibi Meier-Oruitemeka

Artist Ibi Meier-Oruitemeka’s work resonates with a striking sense of intimacy and human connection. Born in the UK with roots in Nigeria, Ibi left the bustling energy of London behind to settle in Hastings, a seaside town on England’s south coast. Here she resides with her partner and two children, enjoying the slower pace of life a rhythm she first embraced while living in Sweden.

Before venturing into painting, Ibi spent eight years running an organic hair and skincare business, a path that instilled her with a sensitivity to process and care. Her artistic focus now centres on figures, often capturing quiet, reflective moments or shared experiences between friends and family. “I’m fascinated by human connection and the communities we create, as well as the need for solitude,” she shares.

A Natural Flow

Working exclusively with acrylics, Ibi’s approach is spontaneous and intuitive. “If I overthink a piece before starting, I lose satisfaction in the result,” she explains. Her process begins with quick sketches to explore scale or tackle complex poses, but the real detail emerges as she paints. This organic flow infuses her work with a freshness that feels both honest and dynamic.

Colour is another instinctive aspect of her practice. Without a fixed palette, Ibi chooses hues based on mood and feeling. “I think when you look at my work, it’s clear that I am drawn to certain colours, but they appear naturally rather than deliberately,” she reflects. As Ibi’s practice develops, she aspires to explore oil pastels and expand her workspace, moving beyond her home studio to a dedicated creative environment.

For Ibi, inspiration comes from life itself – the interplay of relationships, environments and fleeting moments. Painting offers her a medium to translate these experiences into vibrant compositions that celebrate the beauty of connection.