The Creative Tides exhibition, featuring the works of eight Nigerian artists, has brought a refreshing wave of creativity to the National Museum Onikan in Lagos. Words by Ireho Aito for iBAND Magazine

The exhibition, which runs from December 14th to 20th, 2024, is a collaborative effort by Art Alliance, bringing together a diverse group of artists, including Juliet Ezenwa Maja Pearce, Klaranze Okhide, Nosakhare Osadolor, Clara Aden, Asuku Musa, Uchenna Eugene, Ajayi Yetunde, and Akanni Kehinde.

The opening reception on December 14th was a grand affair, with a notable gathering of art enthusiasts, collectors, and critics. The exhibition itself is a treasure trove of artistic expressions, with each artist showcasing their unique style and creative vision. From oil paintings on canvas to mixed media, sculptural hanging pieces, and ceramics, the exhibition is a visual feast that showcases the diversity and richness of Nigerian art. Chairman of the day. Distinguished guests such as Mrs. Nkechi Adedeji, Curator National Museum Lagos and also Deputy Director, Monuments and Sites, Lagos State were notably present.

As visitors enter the museum, they are greeted by a large photograph of Professor Ben Enwonwu, a legendary figure in African modern art. The exhibition itself is a testament to the enduring legacy of Enwonwu and the vibrant artistic community that continues to thrive in Nigeria.

One of the highlights of the exhibition is the ceramics on display by Uchenna Eugene and Akanni Kehinde, both of whom are young and ambitious ceramic artists. Their works add a unique dimension to the exhibition, showcasing the versatility and creativity of Nigerian artists. While Eugene lives in Lagos, Akeem lives and works in Saki, Oyo State. Both of them were inspired by the theme of the exhibition when the invitation was advertised online. They delved into family, faith and life, romancing the African culture and existence.
Akanni, a young and talented ceramist, has been driven by his passion for ceramics since it was his first love. He decided to give everything to succeed and has not looked back in his career since graduating from the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University.

His ceramics works at Creative Tides Exhibition are inspired by Yoruba African themes, with designs adapted from adire motifs to enhance his ideas. Some of his notable works include Aje, the goddess of wealth, Ologe, a fashionista, and Atunbi, which means Rebirth. He also has a work entitled Oya, which represents an icon in Yoruba culture and symbolizes black power among Africans.

Akanni’s art trajectory is not just about creating beautiful pieces, but also about teaching knowledge and morals. His designs are spiritually inclined, and he believes that his art can celebrate the origins of civilization. For him, the passion for ceramics keeps him going, and he is not looking back.

As a cool, calm, and organized individual, Akanni is poised to take quality decisions in his career. His adorable cornrow hairstyle may give him a resemblance to a Sango devotee, but he is simply a young artist with a clear vision. With his career just starting, Akanni is set to make a mark in the art world.

Interestingly, Akanni notes that religion can be a divisive force due to its diversity, but his art seeks to celebrate the commonalities that bind us together. With his ceramics, he hopes to share his vision and inspire others to appreciate the beauty of Yoruba culture.

Uchenna Eugene’s artistic journey was sparked by the breath-taking beauty of Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, where he was born. The stunning atmosphere and natural scenery of Jos township instilled in him a deep appreciation for the arts. After relocating to Lagos in 2003, Uchenna pursued a solid education that laid the foundation for his career as a full-time studio artist.

With an insatiable passion for clay, Uchenna continues to explore new frontiers in his craft. A pivotal moment in his artistic development was his participation in the renowned Harmattan Workshop at Agbarha Otor. This enriching experience opened his eyes to fresh perspectives and approaches to modern art, and he confesses that it was a decision he never regretted.

Uchenna’s artwork is a reflection of his values and interests, often focusing on themes of love, food, and family. Through his creations, he shares his vision of the world, one that is rooted in the beauty of everyday life and the importance of human connection. As a young ceramicist, Uchenna’s pieces are not only aesthetically stunning but also imbued with a sense of warmth and personality, inviting viewers to reflect on the simple joys of life.
The exhibition keeps sparkling with visitors and tourists at the museum trying to appreciate Creative Tides exhibitions. Pupils from Divine Grace Favour School from Ikorodu, had an educating moment with some of the exhibiting artists while on their yearly excursion to National Museum. It was an enriching atmosphere as students and teachers were able to interact with the curator of Creative Tides and Nosakhare Osadolor about the exhibtion and art generally.

The curator of the exhibition, Klaranze Okhide, an environmentalist and painter, was available to provide insights into the exhibition and the artistic vision behind it.
As the exhibition continues to run until December 20th, art lovers and enthusiasts are encouraged to visit the National Museum Onikan and experience the creative tides that are sweeping through the Nigerian art scene.

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger/Photographs/Akanni Kehinde/Nosakhare Osadolor/Uchenna Eugenie/Klaranze Okhide