Afolabi Fakunmoju’s Artistic Harmony is calming and reassuring

Afolabi Fakunmoju’s *‘A Tree of Seasons’* is a deeply reflective piece of art that invites viewers to contemplate the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life. The artwork, though simple in technique, carries profound meaning, encapsulating the duality of existence—day and night, bloom and decay, abundance and scarcity. The image features a single tree set against a valley landscape, divided into two distinct halves. One side depicts the tree in full bloom under the brightness of day, symbolizing vitality and fruitfulness, while the other side shows the same tree barren and dry under the darkness of night, representing dormancy and scarcity. Through this striking contrast, Afolabi pays homage to the inevitability of time and seasons, emphasizing the importance of surrendering to the natural flow of life. The piece encourages viewers to take charge of what they can change while gracefully accepting what they cannot, a timeless lesson in resilience and adaptability.

Afolabi, who also goes by the name ‘Folly Creative Art,’ is known for his vibrant digital paintings that often evoke nostalgia for simpler times and ways of living. In *‘A Tree of Seasons,’* he masterfully juxtaposes opposing extremes under similar conditions. While the technique remains consistent throughout the work, the use of color dramatically shifts to convey mood and meaning. Bright, warm hues dominate the daytime scene, suggesting growth, energy, and prosperity, while cooler, darker tones dominate the nighttime scene, evoking stillness, reflection, and transition. This deliberate use of color not only enhances the visual impact of the piece but also deepens its emotional resonance, inviting viewers to reflect on the ebb and flow of their own lives.

The underlying message of *‘A Tree of Seasons’* appears to draw inspiration from biblical teachings, particularly Ecclesiastes 3:1, which states, *“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.”* Afolabi’s artwork serves as a visual interpretation of this verse, reminding viewers that periods of dryness and barrenness are not anomalies but natural phases within the broader cycle of life. Just as the tree in the painting experiences both bloom and decay, human life is marked by seasons of growth and decline, joy and sorrow, abundance and loss. By framing these contrasts as part of a larger, harmonious cycle, Afolabi offers a sense of clarity and peace, encouraging viewers to embrace the transient nature of their experiences.

Another notable work by Afolabi is *‘Instinct and Nature,’* a liminal image that depicts a pier leading into a serene stream. The background features lush forestry and a glowing sunset, evoking a sense of tranquility and introspection. This piece raises thought-provoking questions about human nature and our relationship with the world around us. What happens when we act on instinct? What lies beyond the horizon when we heed the call to explore the unknown? Through this artwork, Afolabi suggests that by embracing our instincts and connecting with nature, we can achieve a deeper sense of harmony and unity with the world. The painting serves as a metaphor for the journey of self-discovery, urging viewers to step into the unknown and find their place within the natural order.

Afolabi’s artistic style is perhaps best encapsulated in his piece *‘Sunset Island,’* a tranquil landscape featuring coconut trees surrounded by water, with a radiant sunset glowing in the background. This idyllic scene, reminiscent of a vacation postcard, captures the essence of Afolabi’s work—his attention to detail, his mastery of color, and his ability to evoke serenity and peace. The recurring motifs of sunsets, nature, and vibrant landscapes highlight his fascination with the beauty of the natural world and its ability to inspire introspection and calm.

Afolabi Fakunmoju’s art is a celebration of life’s cyclical nature, the beauty of simplicity, and the profound lessons embedded in the natural world. Through works like *‘A Tree of Seasons,’* *‘Instinct and Nature,’* and *‘Sunset Island,’* he invites viewers to reflect on the passage of time, the importance of balance, and the interconnectedness of all things. His art is not only visually captivating but also deeply philosophical, offering a timeless reminder to embrace life’s seasons with grace and gratitude.