Alkebulan, reflects Brian Coutinho’s exploration of humanity’s origins and the resilience of cultural identity. The name Alkebulan, believed to be one of the oldest names for Africa, evokes ancient connections to creation and continuity. The statue, with its fusion of organic forms and precise linework, showcases Coutinho’s signature blend of natural inspiration and technical craftsmanship. Through its flowing lines and intricate textures, the piece embodies a sense of transformation, expressing themes of vitality and survival.

Coutinho uses stoneware to create a figure that appears to emerge from the earth, symbolizing both raw strength and delicate beauty. Its surface features intricate, almost mythological patterns, representing ancestral stories and universal symbols of life. The interplay of earthy tones and contrasting textures gives the piece a dynamic energy, as though it contains the pulse of creation itself. These details bring a sense of motion and life to the work, adding layers of meaning that transcend any one culture or tradition.

At its core, Alkebulan is a meditation on identity, heritage, and survival. Through his figurative work, Coutinho brings forth themes of