John Anabui is a 1999 graduate of Schoold of Art and Design, Federal Polytechnic Auchi. He is simply a dedicated art administrator and profound artist. While he works at one of the National Museums in Nigeria, the dapper member of Auchi Klass of ’99 continues to draw collectors to his items.. Some of his alluring works like ’26 Stitches,’ celebrates womanhood and the impact and attention they put into self care which is worth celebrating. This is one of the things we overlook that we don’t appreciate in womenfolk…and the lessons. Writes Ireho Aito

We all have them in our lives and we know. They are either sisters, aunts, cousins and also mothers. It is a meticulous art of self-adornment Women, indeed, are the epitome of peacemakers, yet when it comes to perfecting their beauty, they are uncompromising. Every detail must be meticulously attended to, every hair in place, every curve accentuated and every pin adorn the right piercing.

Their dedication to beauty is a spectacle to behold. They can be found admiring their reflections in every available mirror, from the ones at home to those on the road, and even on vehicles. It’s as if they’re under a spell, driven to enhance and perfect their natural beauty.

Men often find themselves caught up in this whirlwind of primping and preening, especially when preparing for social events or important work-related functions. Women are, indeed, perfectionists, and their commitment to looking and feeling their best is admirable.

But, as the title “26 Stitches” suggests, this pursuit of beauty can sometimes come at a cost. The pressure to conform to societal standards, to fit an ideal mold, can lead to extreme measures. And yet, it’s this very drive that makes women so captivating, so alluring.

In the end, it’s not just about physical beauty; it’s about the confidence, the self-assurance that comes with knowing one looks and feels their best. And that, indeed, is a beautiful thing.

Without doubt, John Oshoke Anabui, a 1999 alumnus of the prestigious School of Art and Design at Federal Polytechnic Auchi, John has evolved into a multifaceted creative force. By day, he works at one of Nigeria’s esteemed National Commission for Museums and Monuments where his passion for art administration shines. By night, he transforms into a profound artist, weaving magic with every brushstroke. This is a typical Auchi school product. John is a quintessential gentleman and sculptor who would rather allow his career and creative arm speak for him. Despite his gentle frame, his collections are headliners due to their creativity.

He is a Lagos boy, having been born in middle class Surulere, in Lagos. John is the son of a military man who served Nigeria gallantly and moving like a die – hard soldier, John and his siblings moves with their parents from one part of Nigeria to the other. And what do you expect concerning John’s education? The military schools of course! And one of the reasons, attention is super in need to look and enjoy John’s artistic showcase.

This peripatetic upbringing took John to on a geographical cruise of the nation, exposing him to diverse cultures and experiences. He must have had a Nigerian version of ‘Around the World in Eighty Days’,’ travel adventure novel by French author Jules Verne, published serially in 1872 in Le Temps and in book form in 1873. Or, the highly popular Mr. David Bako and his family holiday travels across Nigeria that featured in the Nigerian Ordinary Education Certificate (NOEC) book series. The story is featured in books 4–6 of the series.

Nevertheless, John was raised in an environment that instilled discipline, responsibility, and structure. His early years spent in military schools shaped him into a focused and driven individual, adept at managing time, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines. He actually started school by enrolling in Command Children School, Yaba, Lagos for his elementary education. Due to father’s postings and national service, John moved with his family to Abakaliki, the present Ebonyi State to continue his education at Command Children School, Abakaliki, then Abakaliki was part of old Anambra State.

In the military, discipline is one of the core values and John’s calm mien belies his strokes on his art. The military fashion of accuracy in discharging duties is well represented in John Oshoke Anabui’s numerous work.

John’s artistic journey began innocently enough, with a childhood introduction to Plastersine and Leggos at Command Children School, Yaba. As he moulded and shaped, his creativity sparked to life. Later, at Command Children School Abakaliki, John’s imagination ran wild as he crafted lizards from termite hill clay and transformed discarded nylon bags into vibrant flowers.

His passion for art only intensified as he delved into the world of cartoons and comics. John spent hours perfecting his drawings, inspired by the colorful characters that leapt from the pages.

At Federal Government College Idoani, John’s artistic talents flourished under the guidance of his mentor, Mr. Etuk. This wise instructor instilled invaluable lessons, urging John to observe the world around him, to study the interplay of light and shadow, and to seek out the perfect pose.

Ironically, John’s path to becoming an artist was not always clear-cut. He had initially set his sights on a career in law, but a pivotal excursion to Auchi Poly in 1990, organized by Mr. Etuk, altered his trajectory. Four years later, John enrolled in the School of Art and Design, ready to embark on a journey that would forever change the course of his life.

Today, John’s academic odyssey has taken him to Auchi Polytechnic, graduating from the Sculpture Department in 1999

But his thirst for knowledge didn’t stop there. He went on to obtain a Diploma in Museology and Archaeological Studies from the Institute of Arts and Management Studies (IAMS) in Jos, Plateau State, in 2010. This marked the beginning of his foray into the world of museums and cultural preservation.

As he delved deeper into the world of sculpture, he pursued a Master’s degree in Sculpture from the prestigious University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, which he completed in 2014. Today, he is a Doctoral student at the same university, further honing his skills and expertise.

Parallel to his academic pursuits, he began his career at the National Commission for Museums and Monuments in 2001. For over two decades, he has remained dedicated to the commission, working tirelessly to preserve and promote Nigeria’s cultural heritage. His commitment to his craft is a testament to his passion and dedication to the arts.

As a distinguished member of the Auchi Klass of ’99, John’s artistic prowess continues to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts alike. His thought-provoking works, such as the enchanting “26 Stitches,” pay tribute to the beauty and resilience of womanhood. This masterpiece celebrates the often-overlooked attention to self-care that women bring to their daily lives – a testament to their strength and dedication.

Through his art, John invites us to appreciate the intricacies of womanhood, to acknowledge the intricate stitches that weave together their lives. With each piece, he reminds us of the beauty in the everyday, of the stories that deserve to be told. As we gaze upon his creations, we are drawn into a world of vibrancy, of colour, and of celebration. John Anabui’s art is a confirmation to the transformative power of creativity, a reminder that even the smallest threads can weave together that form of beauty and meaning.

John Anabui’s “26 Stitches” is a thought-provoking artwork that lays bare the intricate complexities of femininity, beauty, and pain. Crafted from styrofoam, iron rod, and coloured sawdust, this striking piece presents a woman’s ear, adorned with multiple piercings and heavy earrings, as a powerful metaphor for the sacrifices women make in the pursuit of beauty.

At first glance, the viewer is drawn to the intricate details of the ear, with its numerous piercings, the lantern and ornate earrings. The styrofoam and coloured sawdust blend seamlessly to create a textured, almost lifelike quality, while the iron rod adds a sense of strength and resilience. As one gazes deeper into the artwork, the piercings and earrings begin to symbolize the various ways in which women are expected to conform to societal beauty standards.

The title “26 Stitches” is also a poignant reference to the physical and emotional pain that women often endure in their quest for beauty. The number 26, presumably representing the number of piercings or stitches, serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices women make to meet the expectations of others. Anabui’s artwork challenges the viewer to confront the harsh realities of beauty standards and the impact they have on women’s lives.

The cultural value of “26 Stitches” lies in its ability to spark important conversations about femininity, beauty, and identity. The artwork encourages viewers to question the societal norms that dictate how women should look and present themselves. By shedding light on the often-hidden sacrifices women make, Anabui’s artwork promotes empathy, understanding, and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of femininity.

In terms of its artistic value, “26 Stitches” is a masterful example of mixed media art, showcasing Anabui’s innovative use of materials and techniques. The combination of styrofoam, iron rod, and coloured sawdust creates a unique, almost three-dimensional effect, drawing the viewer’s eye into the intricate details of the piece. Kindly see through the presence of the old lantern. Women are light!

“26 Stitches” is a powerful and thought-provoking artwork that challenges the viewer to confront the harsh realities of beauty standards and their impact on women’s lives. John Anabui’s masterpiece is indeed a collector’s item.

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Photographs/Artwork/John Anabui