Works 04 / 05

Ẹ̀BẸ̀ A Plea

Digital art / 2026

A reflection on vulnerability, emotional expression and the courage to ask for understanding. Through the symbol of a heart held in open hands, the work explores the human need for compassion and connection.

Ẹ̀BẸ̀ (A Plea) by Ajiese: a woman in a folded red geometric headwrap, coral beads and a red and white patterned garment looks towards a pair of hands holding a red heart, against a soft watercolour sky.
Ẹ̀BẸ̀ (A Plea), 2026. Digital art. © Christopher Balogun

About the work

Ẹ̀BẸ̀ explores vulnerability through the symbolic image of a heart held between two hands. The central figure, dressed in a striking red headwrap and patterned garment, represents the emotional weight of asking to be heard, understood and acknowledged.

The heart becomes a symbol of sincerity, openness and the willingness to make oneself vulnerable. Through the relationship between the figure and the hands, the work considers the importance of compassion and the human need for connection.

Combining bold geometric forms, expressive gestures and layered colours, the piece reflects on the courage it takes to make a plea and the humanity behind every request for understanding.