A Little Chat With A Nigerian Caricature Artist And Illustrator- Liberto Clems

I got to interview one of the best artist I know, the uniqueness of his art is one of the reasons I decided to carry out the interview. Met the artist about a year ago and recently discovered his type of art is different, so I decided to share this beauty.

Tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Obioha Chibuike Clement, I’m also known as Liberto Clems. I’m Native of Orlu in Imo state. I’m a fine artist and I also love to draw caricatures a lot. I’m an Architecture student in FUTO.

Why did you choose to do art?
Well, I think it’s the other way round, art chose me. My life from childhood has revolved around art, most especially Visual arts and music. Art to me is a form of expression and voice with which I speak my feelings.

Caricature is new to some of us, can you tell us more about the art?

Yeah, Caricature is a way of representing a character with exaggerated features to create humor. It’s commonly used as a form of entertainment or criticism. So if you want to criticize something bad without causing trouble, I suggest caricature is the way to go :D.
Personally, I see caricature art the same way writers see poetry, I think they’re correlated but in different ways.

What motivates you most?

Self development motivates me most. I hate not growing.

What tools do you make use of in creating your art?

Traditionally, I use the common drawing tools we are all familiar with, then digitally, I draw with a graphics tablet with a stylus and a laptop computer installed with photoshop programme.

Do you have any favourite artist?

There’s a lot of artists that inspires my art both locally and internationally. The likes of Ayo draws, Oscar Ukonu, Isimi Taiwo, Bright Akwerh from Ghana, Jason Seiler etc The creativity behind their arts influences me to work even harder.

How has the internet helped you and your art?

The internet has undoubtedly been of help especially to me as an artist. Information are easily accessed, materials are ordered online, clients emails are received, works are uploaded and promoted; all with the help of the internet. Internet is good.

Will you encourage young artists to delve into Caricature art?

Yes. But I think young artists should follow their hearts. It’s okay to learn the art of caricature and other styles of art as well.

Aside caricature, are you into any other form of art?

Yes of course. Actually I started off as a pencil artist. I paint on canvas with acrylic and oil. I do whatever the spirit decides and what the client needs.