He is the patient artist like a typical prince from the Niger Delta. In fact, his middle name is Princely and Nosakhare Osadolor is one artist who has carefully but creatively opened our eyes to greater light, an epiphany he got while on artistic renaissance. His mission is spiritual and fulfilling through greater light. Nosakhare Osadolor, is a visionary with an uncanny ability to harness the power of light and make artistic statement. He took a walk for the first time with Ireho Aito inside the National Museum Onikan in Lagos while exhibiting Creative Tides.

Writes Ireho Aito

His image drums the posh, attractive Bini culture that is revered from the Niger Delta. A region where the majestic bronze art are carved and the vibrant culture of gong and Igbabonelimi masquerade thrive, and within such an atmosphere, a creative prince emerged. Nosakhare Osadolor, an artist with a royal flair, was destined to illuminate the world with his extraordinary talent. His middle name, Princely, seemed almost prophetic, as he embarked on a journey to awaken our senses to the transformative power of light.

Like a master weaver, Nosakhare carefully crafted his artistic vision, infusing it with a spiritual depth that transcended the ordinary. His odyssey was one of discovery, as he delved into the mysteries of light and its profound impact on our perceptions. With each brushstroke, he invited us to partake in his epiphany, to behold the world anew, bathed in the radiance of greater light.

As a visionary artist, Nosakhare possessed an uncanny ability to harness the essence of light, bending it to his creative will. His artistic statements were at once profound and sublime, inspiring us to reexamine our relationship with the world around us. The School of Art and Design – Federal Polytechnic Auchi, as well as the Auchi Klass of ’99, could proudly claim Nosakhare as one illustrious alumnus, a shining star in their constellation of creative talent.

My first encounter with Nosa, as he’s fondly known, left an indelible mark. His chiseled features and regal demeanour instantly conjured up images of Efan Ekoku, the Nigerian football legend turned commentator. We met physically for the first time at the group exhibition of Creative Tides at National Museum Onikan in Lagos in December 2024. Nosakhare Princely Osadolor is a Fine Art graduate of School of Art and Design, Federal Polytechnic Auchi, the renowned school known for his landscape and colours. In fact, Nosakhare’s journey into Auchi was illustrated in colours as he confessed gaining admission into such prestiguous school was the best day in his life.

As we conversed, Nosa’s aristocratic tone and confident air commanded attention. He proudly proclaimed his roots in Oriedo local council, Edo State, his eyes sparkling with joy whenever artistic concepts were discussed. This passion has been the driving force behind his unique style, which has carved a distinct niche in the art world.

Born into a large, vibrant family, Nosa is the first son of his father’s four wives, who together bore 16 children. This rich cultural heritage and bustling family environment have undoubtedly influenced his artistic vision, shaping him into the innovative force he is today.

With his groundbreaking use of greater light, Nosa has steadily refined his technique, transforming it into a recognizable and celebrated motif. His artistic journey is a testament to his dedication, creativity, and passion for illumination – in every sense of the word. As his star continues to rise, Nosakhare Osadolor is sure to leave an enduring mark on the art world.

His father, John Osadolor, a determined and ambitious motor sprayer with Niger Motor Company, Nosakhare’s early years were shaped by his father’s unyielding resolve to provide a better life for his family.

Despite lacking formal education, John Osadolor was a man of remarkable discernment, who recognized the transformative power of knowledge. He was determined to give his children the opportunities he never had, and encouraged them to pursue their dreams. However, when Nosakhare first showed an interest in drawing, his father was less than enthused.

But Nosakhare’s passion for art only intensified, and he soon found himself drawn to the creative world like a magnet. His primary school teacher, Mr. Joe, an artist himself, took notice of Nosakhare’s exceptional talent and nurtured it with care. As the young boy’s skills blossomed, he became the star pupil in drawing sessions, a trait that would follow him throughout his academic journey.

At Edo College, Nosakhare’s love for Creative Art continued to flourish, thanks to the guidance of qualified teachers who recognized his innate talent. Initially, he had considered pursuing Architecture, but his heart belonged to the world of art. The moment he was allowed to join the art class, he knew he had found his true calling.

Nosakhare’s artistic prowess earned him a reputation as a talented young artist, and he went on to represent his school in numerous art competitions and events. With each triumph, his confidence grew, and his passion for art continued to burn brighter. Little did he know that this was only the beginning of an extraordinary journey, one that would take him to unprecedented heights.

As Nosakhare Osadolor stepped onto the prestigious campus of School of Art and Design, Federal Polytechnic Auchi, his heart swelled with excitement. Gaining admission was a dream come true, and he felt like he was exactly where he was meant to be. The General Drawing class was his haven, where he devoured new skills and techniques like a starving artist. The environment was electric, and Nosakhare couldn’t believe his luck.

“Auchi school gave me the freedom to be bold in my beliefs,” he recalled, his eyes sparkling with nostalgia. “It was life-changing.” During his first year, he lived in one of the allocated male hostels, where he discovered the joys of communal living. Interacting with students from diverse backgrounds was a crash course in cultural education, and Nosakhare lapped up every experience like a thirsty plant.

Auchi school gave me the freedom to be bold in my beliefs,

As he navigated the iconic campus, Nosakhare found himself surrounded by talented individuals who would become lifelong friends and fellow artists. He stated, “the Klass of ’99 set was a dynamic group, each member bringing their unique trait and approach to their craft.” Nosakhare’s artistic journey was just beginning, and he was eager to take on the world.

the Klass of ’99 set was a dynamic group, each member bringing their unique trait and approach to their craft

Years later, Nosakhare would look back on his early days with fondness, remembering the thrill of selling his first artwork to a Veterinary Doctor and the rush of exhibiting his pieces at Divas Gallery in Benin. His National Youth Service Scheme proved to be a launching pad for his career, as he received commissions from high-profile clients and continued to hone his craft.

Today, Nosakhare is a renowned artist, known for his bold and evocative works. His journey has been a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a willingness to take risks. As he continues to push the boundaries of his art, Nosakhare Osadolor remains true to his roots, inspiring a new generation of artists to follow in his footsteps for greater light.

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Photographs/Artworks/Nosakhare Osadolor.