Ato Arinze, the renowned Nigerian sculptor and founder of the acclaimed platform Artzero, recently spoke with Ireho Aito in Lagos about the upcoming Ori Art Exhibition. Set to open in October at the iconic Quintessence Gallery, the exhibition promises to showcase a blend of contemporary and traditional art, highlighting the rich cultural narratives of Africa. Arinze emphasized the importance of community engagement and the role of art in storytelling, inviting art enthusiasts to experience the vibrant expressions of identity and heritage that will be on display. With his unique vision, the exhibition aims to foster dialogue and appreciation for African artistry on a global stage.

iBAND: How did you select these incredible artists?

Ato – We did call for entries and about 40 Sculptors applied. We got entries coming from up and coming, mid-career and established Sculptors with two Professors in the Academia. The best among them was selected.

What themes are they exploring?

The idea is to explore the Yoruba concept of Ori. So, every artist is supposed to interpret the concept using the head of humans and animals either in abstraction or realistic forms to express their thoughts in any media.

What inspired the theme “Ori” for this exhibition, and how does it connect to the participating artists’ backgrounds?

The need to create a thematic exhibition which will make the artist think, research their topics is what inspired the exhibition. It’s common to invite artists to participate in a show and they will all come with similar or familiar works. We want to use the exhibition to make a difference. All the artists are trained sculptors with vastly experienced in the materials they use with various techniques of their choice.

Can you tell us about the collaborative process among the 24 artists from Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ghana?

Well, the Cameroonian artist, Djakou Kassi Nathalie, is based in Lagos and has been active in the Lagos Art Circle, since she came to Nigeria in 2015. While the Ghanaian Ceramics Artist came to Lagos in August for a 2 – week residency in my studio courtesy of a travelled grant from Kaabo Clay Collective, a Potter’ Organization based in America.

Tell us how the cultural influences of each country shape the artworks on display?

Well, you can almost identify the works by the way the artists used their materials and also motifs on the surface of their pieces. One can tell the works from Ghana and the ones made in Benin, Nigeria and so on .

Who are the special guest artists, and what unique perspective do they bring to the exhibition?

The special guest artist is Mr. Matt. Ehizele a noted Sculptor who just retired as a Senior Lecturer from the University of Benin. We decided to use the exhibition to honour him for his contribution to sculpture education. Then the special guests are all established sculptors, for the fact that they responded to the call for entries. And we felt we should also honour them for wanting to exhibit alongside younger sculptors. The interest shown by all the various professionals is very encouraging.

What message do you hope to convey to the audience through this collective artistic expression?

Over the years the 3D arts had suffered serious relegation as against the frequent exhibitions of paintings, so we intend to use this show to promote and popularize the art of sculpture.

What role does community play in the creation and presentation of this exhibition?

We had the support of Quintessence Art Gallery that accepted to host the exhibition and also to collaborate with our Studio, ArtO Studio which was founded in 2022 by Ato Arinze. Our core business is to organize and create thematic exhibitions all across the country. Our aim is to bring art closer to the people.

Are there any specific pieces that you think will resonate strongly with the audience? Why?

Many of the works are great sculptures that will captivate the audience. One of such is a bronze piece by Endurance Omoloja.

Interview / Ireho Aito/ Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Photos/Ato Arinze Archives