Kemi Yemi-Ese
Artist Bio
Nigerian-American therapist and visual artist, Kemi Yemi-Ese, resides in Austin, Texas. Following a near-tragic car accident in 2006, Kemi became paralyzed at the cervical level of her spinal cord and used a wheelchair for mobility. After graduating from Baylor University and Texas Tech Health Sciences Center, Kemi is focused on growing in her dual careers as an artist and therapist. Her art reflects the struggles and triumphs that living with a disability entails through relatable imagery. Her artwork and therapeutic approaches often challenge representations of mobility, gender, beauty, race, and divinity. The challenges she faces compel her to also be an advocate and she has taken many opportunities to advocate for her rights and those of others with disabilities. Kemi’s current work is heavily inspired by her Nigerian heritage blending dynamic and contemplative portraits with cultural exploration.