The Oshodi-based artist on an art residency in the United Kingdom has unveiled three new works highlighting his Yoruba roots and examining current affairs.
VISUAL artist and artist in residence at the University for the Creative Arts (UCA), Rochester, United Kingdom, AboloreSobayo, has introduced three new bodies of works at his ongoing ‘Residence Exhibition’ at the institution.
The show, on till Wednesday, June 21, began with a private viewing before opening to the public, with many coming to view the latest works by the artist.
The multidisciplinary artist with almost two decades of studio experience in the cultural, creative and education sectors is exploring new bodies of work ranging from identity through cultural portraits, drawing inspiration from Aso Oke, the hand-woven fabric of the Yoruba; art installations titled ‘In Conversation’ documenting two significant events that happened during his residency – the coronation of King Charles of England and the inauguration of the new Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
There’s also the ‘Ilarun’ collection. ‘Ilarun’, which means hair parting comb or hair cutting comb, is a watercolour series of wooden combs inspired by the traditional wood carving technique of the Yoruba and African carvers in creating functional art with a high level of aesthetics.
Sobayo, whose creations are thought-provoking contemporary artworks that generate robust debate, added an experiential slant to the show by tying Aso -Okegele (headgear) for some of the viewers who happily posed for photos.
“Beyond the painting, I made it experiential by creating a touch-try-on experience for some guests. The results were awesome, and I thank those who took part as I also showed off my ‘gele’ tying skills,” he explained.
The founder of the Je’losimi Art Centre and the SobayoAbolore Art Foundation to engage minors and youth in creative endeavours said that King Charles’ coronation and President Tinubu’s inauguration were critical historical events he couldn’t resist.
He said, “I archive history with art while using it as a tool to inspire positive changes. After the long reign of his mother, King Charles ascended the throne. It was the same with President Tinubu, who had worked to become the Nigerian president for decades. As an artist with an eye on history, I wanted to capture both events, especially as they happened during my residency. While resuming the residency, I was open to ideas and felt the two events were important. President Tinubu appears to have started on a bright note, and I hope he will sustain the momentum.”
Sobayo, who gained an Ordinary National Diploma in General Art and a Higher National Diploma in painting from the Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, uses diverse media on what he envisions. He uses acrylic paints, fibreglass and wood. He has also done sculptures and installations, including the famous ‘Liberation Statue’, also called ‘Headless Fela’, which used to be at Allen Roundabout, and ‘Community’ removed from Ile-Zik by officials of the Lagos State Government.
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