Detention (Part 2), 2007
Chalk on Blackboard, 75 x 107 cm

www.myspace.com/artistela
larryachiampong@gmail.com

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'LAST NIGHT MY MUM TOLD ME ABOUT AN OCCURRING THAT HAPPENED IN A RECENT TRIP TO GHANA....'

Also known as the bLacKpH03nix, Larry Achiampong along with his siblings were the first generation in their family to have been born in Britain. Residing from Ghana, Larry's parents pondered upon the idea of moving to England to expand a business in selling cars, therefore opening opportunities for the family before finally moving to London in 1980. Growing up as a child in London, he grew used to the ways of Western society taking on both the pros and cons of the terrain, in particularly issues such as racism and dealing with identity from the point of view of a minority', a word he especially dislikes as he sees this as negating specific people as inferior'.

Perception, misconception, identity and belonging are ongoing topics within Larry Achiampong's practice using differing media. His interest in contemporary lifestyle and social issues are often captured from varying points of view via the perspective of the proud protagonist and ignorant antagonist. This however, is not dominant of his entire practice and is highly evident through the endeavours of his altered ego bLacKpH03nix. The bLacKpH03nix moves in ways in which Larry can/does not, opting for a more visceral edge of blatant expression through sound, text (wordplays and poetry) drawing and performance. Although the intentions are unclear, one thing is certain; the bLacKpH03nix is free in spirit.

The void is far and wide, consuming while being consumed. Time isn't relevant because we do not have control over it. But what is done with this borrowed time will expose us.

Blackphoenix