FEMI Olajire Akande is an astute observer of the world around him. A ceramic sculptor, he infuses his art with artistic, religious and social commentary in searching for change.
This trait could be traced to old master artist, pioneer of modern art and expression Francisco Goya.
In his work, Akande addresses the political instabilities through ‘State of the Nation,’ ‘A Land filled with Milk and Honey,’ (Oga Pa Ibi Da, So Ibi Di re), ‘Hidden Treasure,’ among others.
At the global scene, he is currently lending his voice to the international outcry for peace by joining the United States, G7 Nations and peace organisations in urging a peaceful and diplomatic solution to the Ukraine-Russian crisis, thus fostering the culture of peace through arts.
He produces ceramic sculpture to tell stories in visual form. His works are hybrid artworks rooted in two specialised areas of ceramic and sculpture.
He draws inspiration from the stories of the Bible and those that are from African folklores and adapts them not only to enthuse but to create a philosophy out of the works.
Akande aligns himself with Aristotle who proclaims that “The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things but their inward significance.” This resonates deeply with his use of art as both aesthetic and social change.
His art is targeted mostly at peacebuilding, which is a United Nations Sustainable Development Goals number 16. He explains. “The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SGD) goal 16 refers to Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. The goal aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, access to justice for all, and effective and accountable institutions at all levels.
“This goal has 12 targets; reduce all forms of violence and related death rates, end torture and other cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment of punishment, ensure equal access to justice for all, among many others.
“The goal is important because it addresses the need for peaceful and just societies, which are essential for sustainable development and human well-being.
“Curiosity for change motivated me to research in this direction. In this new age where the fabric of human existence is being threatened by war, violence, conflict and inter-communal clashes among many others. I desire to lend my voice by using transformative power of art for social impact to generate meaningful change and shape human future, together for a peaceful just world.”
Assessing the use of art in establishing and strengthening conflict prevention and post conflict reconciliation, Akande implores arts-based peace building colourful palette of activities, which denotes artistic and creative practice that represents, responds to, seeks to transform or prevent the occurrence and negative impacts of conflict and violence by creating artistic projects that can bring people together, fostering dialogue, collaboration and building bridges between communities.
“These art projects would foster cultural understanding, break down stereotypes and prejudices that may contribute to conflict. It would equally provide a safe outlet for emotional expression, helping to address grievances and tensions before they escalate into violence. This will help to rebuild social cohesion, promoting a sense of shared identity and community.
“It can encourage African-American artists and others across the globe to ensure that all the artworks being produce during the project are well documented, and showcase memories and stories promoting peace, unity, and awareness on social cohesion. Local artist can be encouraged to create community murals that reflect their stories, hopes, and aspirations.”
“Peace festival can also be organized, which celebrates art, music, and culture, promoting unity and reconciliation.
“We can establish sculptural gardens that symbolise reconciliation and peace.
“As well as art education programmes that promote peace, tolerance, and understanding, introduction of peace poetry, using the power of words to promote peace understanding and cultural exchange program that bring together artists, musician, and writers from different culture and background could also be encouraged or instituted.”
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