Celebrating Cultural Identity, Migration, and the Quest for Meaning
In the bustling city of Lagos, Nigeria, art enthusiasts and cultural enthusiasts are flocking to the prestigious Wheatbaker Hotel, where SMO Contemporary Art (SMO) presents ‘Journeys,’ an extraordinary exhibition showcasing the diverse and captivating works of ten emerging and mid-career artists from Nigeria and Zimbabwe. The exhibition, curated by Majid Biggar, takes viewers on a thought-provoking voyage, delving into themes of cultural identity, migration, and the human quest for meaning.
The Curatorial Vision: Embarking on Introspective Voyages
The exhibition ‘Journeys’ seeks to explore the profound nature of life’s numerous voyages, capturing the essence of the human experience through captivating paintings, mixed media works, and sculptures. Inspired by global migration and Africa’s brain drain, the artists reflect on questions that accompany us on our quest for meaning and belonging. From the spiritual and physical search for home to humanity’s yearning for safety and abundance, each artwork serves as a powerful window into the artists’ personal journeys, inviting viewers to contemplate their own paths.
A Journey into Cultural Identity and Rootedness
The rich and vibrant cultural identity of the Yoruba people comes to life in the oil portraits of Ademola Ojo. Through skilful juxtaposition, Ojo envisions a hybrid identity, exploring what could have been if African traditions and beliefs coexisted with British colonial rule. On the other hand, Robert Oniha weaves mesmerizing mazes of traditional African hairstyles using hair extensions in his mixed media triptych ‘Japa,’ portraying the historical significance of these hairstyles while addressing their gradual disappearance.
Sculptures that Speak of Human Expression and Spirituality
Collins Abinoro and Ejiro Fenegal are sculptors whose artworks mesmerize with their creative use of materials. Abinoro’s life-size sculpture ‘Scarred’ captures the socio-economic struggles of a nation, as newspaper clippings represent the subject’s trials, triumphs, secrets, and truths. Fenegal’s sculptures celebrate female empowerment, depicting young female leaders with flamboyant traditional hairstyles, symbolizing a yearning for self-improvement and fulfilment.
Migration Explored through Symbolic Art
Artists like Iniobong Usoro, Tumininu Gbebire, and Sanjo Lawal delve into the complexities of migration, examining the challenges faced by migrants around the world. Usoro employs geometric shapes as potent metaphors, while Gbebire portrays the perils faced by migrants trying to cross the Mediterranean Sea. Lawal creates intricate scenes with symbolic items hidden as clues, depicting their intense desire for independence and readiness to confront the unknown.
Female Empowerment and Resilience
Prudence Chimutuwah, hailing from Zimbabwe, challenges traditional narratives surrounding women through her striking mixed media collages. She uses decommissioned banknotes, snippets from fashion magazines, and personal notes to create confident and determined female personalities exuding resilience and empowerment.
Reflections on Anxiety and African Identity
Praise Sanni-Adeniyi’s introspective works reflect her internal struggle with anxiety and her quest for balance. Aluu Prosper celebrates African identity, elevating and dignifying his subjects through expressive paintings and sculptures.
Embarking on a Visual Journey
The ‘Journeys’ exhibition draws art enthusiasts and cultural enthusiasts into a world of introspection and creative brilliance. The artistic narratives of the ten talented artists celebrate human diversity and resilience, transcending borders and cultural boundaries. As viewers gaze at the paintings, sculptures, and mixed media works, they are invited to embark on their own mental and emotional voyages, contemplating the paths they have travelled and those that lie ahead.
A Celebration of Nigerian Arts and Culture at The Wheatbaker
The Wheatbaker, a steadfast supporter of Nigerian arts and culture, provides the perfect backdrop for the ‘Journeys’ exhibition. Over the years, the hotel has showcased exceptional traditional, modern, and contemporary art, fostering a vibrant cultural environment for both artists and patrons alike. ‘Journeys’ is yet another manifestation of The Wheatbaker’s commitment to celebrating the richness and diversity of Nigerian creativity.
‘SMO Contemporary Art’ continues to shine as an international art platform, elevating the voices and narratives of modern and contemporary artists from Africa and the Diaspora. ‘Journeys’ stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and its ability to unite people from all walks of life, transcending borders and time.
The exhibition ‘Journeys’ will run until August 30th, 2023, providing a unique opportunity for art enthusiasts and culture lovers to embark on an unforgettable artistic journey.
