Eko si Kwalu Ike”: George’s Interpretation of Lagos
Through his “Eko si Kwalu Ike” series, George portrayed Lagos, showcasing its beauty and challenges. His panoramic view of the city delves deep into the dreams and relentless energy that define Lagos—a city that never sleeps.

The city of Lagos isn’t just a background but an integral element enriching George’s artistic journey. As George Edozie traverses these streets, his art doesn’t merely imitate the city’s rhythm; it merges with it, infusing the vibrant colors of nature, exhibitions, and paintings into the very essence of his expression. His artistic identity becomes a mirror reflecting his life and beliefs, each brushstroke revealing layers of his convictions. His profound respect for faith mirrors in his artistry, guiding and shaping his artistic landscape.

Celebrating an iconic figure in the Nigerian Visual Arts Story, George Edozie emerges as a symbol from Onitsha—Onitsha Ado N’du. Graduating from the University of Benin, he embodies a dream come true for Nigeria and Africa. His Afro Love exhibition at Alexis Galleries in November 2013 showcased another premium acquisition, highlighting his unique approach in capturing the essence of Lagos. His ‘Eko si Kwalu Ike’ series, consisting of mixed media and oil on canvas, portrayed Lagos as a challenging city. George’s interpretation presented a panoramic view, revealing Lagos as a city of endless dreams and ceaseless activity.

In his Afro Love exhibitions, George’s artistry, influenced by his Benin training, featured human figures scattered throughout, including a significant sculptural installation. Through these human forms, George illuminated the nuances of life in Lagos, aiming to initiate societal conversations and reflection.

Reflecting on George’s 2013 exhibition in 2023, it resonates as a philosophical portrayal of Lagos’s beauty overshadowed by its challenges. Despite its soaring modernization, Lagos remains a city with a steep cost of living. Amidst this, George’s works, like ‘The Death of a Monk’ and ‘City Girls 1 and 2,’ delve into deeper societal narratives, revealing the concealed truths beneath the surface.

George’s portrayal of ‘Big City 7,’ replicating the densely populated islands of Lagos, stands as an emblematic representation of the city’s core. His art encapsulates the essence of Lagos, emphasizing the significance of roots in George’s artistic endeavors.

The VIP, a striking sculptural installation within the 2013 gallery, epitomizes the influential figures prevalent in Lagos. Lagos musicians’ anthems would aptly revive the essence of George’s iconic exhibition, “This Lagos wey we dey soo…”—a testament to the enduring spirit of the city.

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Images/Artworks/George Edozie’s Archives