O’DA Art Gallery showcased works of Ojeaga and Olumide
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Loading... - Chris Iyang
- 02 Oct 2024
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O'DA Art Gallery recently showcased the works of Simon Ojeaga and Daniel Olumide in its exhibition titled ‘AWA’, which ran from September 3 to September 30, 2024. The exhibition, meaning "Us," explored the diverse experiences of youth in contemporary Nigeria, focusing on individuality, cultural traditions, and the universal themes that bind humanity together. Through figuration and portraiture, Ojeaga and Olumide delved into the complexity of self-discovery, identity, and the interconnectedness of human experiences.
Daniel Olumide's work, inspired by the lives of young adults in Lagos, depicted the themes of growth, empowerment, and emotional depth. His painting “Hopeful Eyes” presented a close-up of a young boy, his expression intense and contemplative, with bold brushstrokes and earthy tones evoking a sense of raw introspection. Another piece, “Ambivalence”, portrayed a young man with an enigmatic gaze, drawing attention to the contrast between light and shadow, symbolizing youthful energy and complexity.
On the other hand, Simon Ojeaga explored the multifaceted nature of adolescence and the deeper aspects of self-awareness. His technique, referred to as “Fractellations”, used meticulous patterns to depict identity and personal growth. In his work “Wacko, Sleight of Hand”, Ojeaga portrayed a figure in multiple positions, symbolizing the fluidity and unpredictability of youth. His piece “Warm Hands”, featuring male figures in a unified hue, represented the interconnectedness of individuals through shared experience and divine touch.
The exhibition highlighted how cultural traditions and individual experiences are intertwined, showing that while everyone is unique, there are shared commonalities in the human experience. Both artists demonstrated a deep understanding of human connection, using their distinct styles to create a dialogue about identity, community, and the beauty of life’s complexities.
