Artistic Journeys Woven Together: Yabatech Alumni Showcase 25 Years of Creative Evolution

Dipo Kehinde/

The Woven Imaginations art exhibition, which opened today, is a compelling showcase of artistic brilliance from the Yabatech Visual Art Graduates of 1997-1999.

Held at two venues—The cozy Adeline Gallery in Ilupeju Industrial Estate and Yanna Studio in Ikoyi, Lagos—the exhibition runs from September 1 to 15, 2024.

The exhibition features 19 artists, including Dotun Alabi, Porter Ajayi, Idowu Sonaya, Babatunde B. B., Norbert Okpu, and Desmond Dubre.

Others are Francis Nja, Sylvester Aigbogun, Taiwo George-Taylor, Patrick Oduone, Lekii Adebesin, Akintunde John, Kafaru Abiodun, Carew Fuad, Owolala Adeniyi, Olusegun Mokayi, Olusegun Savage, Tony Agha and Victor Assam.

These artists bring forth a diverse array of expressions, each woven from their personal and collective experiences in a world marked by socio-political complexities.

The title “Woven Imaginations” reflects this interconnectedness, with each piece serving as a thread in a broader tapestry of contemporary Nigerian life.

The works on display are as varied as they are impactful. For instance, Lekii Adebesin’s “Palm Wine” is a surrealistic painting that uses the imagery of a gourd to evoke themes of peace and communal harmony. In contrast, Desmond Dubre’s “Seeking Refuge” poignantly captures the desperation and hope of those fleeing insecurity, a reflection of the current socio-political climate in Nigeria.

The exhibition also delves into personal and cultural identities. Norbert Okpu’s “The Melodies of My Mind” explores the inner thoughts and emotions of individuals, using a central figure surrounded by a myriad of faces, symbolizing the complexities of human consciousness. Similarly, Victor Assam’s “Ulli That Never Fades” celebrates indigenous traditions through the use of Ulli motifs, blending the old with the new.

What stands out in this exhibition is the seamless blend of naturalism, abstraction, and surrealism, highlighting the artists’ evolution and their adherence to the Yaba Art School’s tradition of excellence. Each artwork is not just a visual treat but a narrative that invites the viewer to reflect on the human condition, societal challenges, and the enduring power of art.

Norbert, Akintunde, and Babatunde featuring at the show.

“Woven Imaginations” is not just an exhibition; it is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the shared history of the 1997-1999 Yabatech graduates. The exhibition underscores the power of collective artistic expression and serves as a testament to the enduring bond among these artists, even 25 years after their graduation.

For anyone interested in contemporary Nigerian art, this exhibition is a must-see. It not only showcases the talent of the artists but also offers a profound commentary on life in Nigeria today.

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