Biodun Omolayo leads a quartet of incredible artists and painters in a colourful and illustrious exhibition entitled ‘Beauties Around Us’ opening on Friday, 31st of May 2024 inside Biodun Omolayo Gallery at Onikan, Lagos. He doubles as the curator of the exhibition and reveals the inspiration behind the four artists coming together to showcase the beauties around us with Lagos based journalist Ireho Aito

Q: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind the theme of your upcoming exhibition, “Beauties Around Us”?

A: The theme of “Beauties Around Us” stems from a desire to shift people’s focus away from the prevailing economic challenges and security concerns in Nigeria. We want to remind viewers that amidst adversity, there is still abundant beauty to be found in our country.

Q: How did you go about selecting the artists—Adeyemi Uthman, Jethro Otubo, Seyi Ajayi, and yourself—for this exhibition?

A: These artists are all part of the Omolayo Gallery’s esteemed roster, and their works align perfectly with the theme of the exhibition. Each brings a unique perspective that contributes to the overall narrative of celebrating Nigerian beauty.

Q: Could you share some insights into the specific works each artist will be showcasing?

A: Seyi Ajayi’s vibrant colourist works reflect our tradition, culture, and ways of life. Adeyemi Uthman, a monochromatic visual artist, documents the business and social environment with black, grey, and white hues. Jethro Utobo uses bold lines andcolours to express his dancers and celebrators, while Biodun Omolayo showcases refreshing and serene landscapes, calling attention to our vegetation, streams, sky, and sunsets.

Q: What unique perspectives or techniques do each of these artists bring to the exhibition?

A: All the artists bring their unique perspectives and techniques that complement each other, ranging from vibrant colors reflecting tradition to monochromatic documentation of the social environment, bold lines expressing celebrations, and serene landscapes capturing the beauty around us.

Q: How do the works of Adeyemi Uthman, Jethro Otubo, Seyi Ajayi, and yourself complement each other in this exhibition?

A: The works complement each other by offering diverse perspectives on the theme of beauties around us, showcasing different styles, techniques, and subjects that collectively inspire renewed hope and appreciation for the world around us.

Q: Can you discuss any particular challenges or highlights you encountered while curating this exhibition?

A: Not much challenge except that we had limited time to put things together.

Q: What message or experience do you hope visitors will take away from this exhibition?

A: We hope visitors will take away a message of hope, renewed hope, and encouragement to keep moving on against all odds, knowing that tough times never last, but tough people do creatively.

Q: Are there any interactive or multimedia elements in the exhibition that you can tell us about?

A: Guests are assured of interactive and engaging moments at the exhibition.

Q: How does this exhibition reflect or build upon the previous exhibitions held at the Biodun Omolayo Gallery?

A: It is a continuity of the previous messages of encouragement and hope, such as “The Storm Is Over!” and “Every Day Is A Milestone” held in March this year, and other related exhibitions.

Q: What are your thoughts on the current state of the art scene in Lagos, and how does this exhibition contribute to it?

A: Against all odds, the art scene in Lagos is blooming in terms of new releases and shows. Although the financial gains might not match the productivity of the artists, galleries, and promoters, exhibitions like ours contribute to the ecosystem by offering a platform for artists to showcase their work and inspire the community.

Interview by Ireho Aito for iBAND Magazine

Photographs courtesy of Biodun Omolayo Gallery