On a beautiful Friday, 13th December 2024 marked a milestone in the African art scene, as Biodun Omolayo Gallery presented the ‘Let’s Celebrate’ exhibition. This tribute to renowned art collector Kester Enwereonu, as a birthday gift, sparked a chorus of praise from the art community, family and business associates. But what drove Omolayo to organise this landmark event? And what’s next for this visionary artist and curator, known for consistently raising the bar?
On “Let’s Celebrate,” allow the voices to echo more. Write Ireho Aito

In Lagos, a pioneering art space is redefining the art world. By pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms, Biodun Omolayo Gallery is creating a new path for artistic expression.

At its core, the gallery is driven by a passion for celebrating humanity. This commitment was on full display last December when Kester Enwereonu was honoured on his 59th birthday at the upwardly mobile, The Art Hotel in Victoria Island of Lagos . The milestone event showcased the gallery’s dedication to recognizing the contributions of collectors, patrons and individuals who enrich our community.

From Biodun Omolayo, everyday is a milestone tagline can never be undermined. Indeed, it has become his creative, work, family and relationship manual. This innovative commitment is spiritually influenced, heavenly driven, as the man himself, Ojogbogbobiodun is rightly known. “Art is more than just a business. It’s a celebration of human spirit and creativity,” Biodun Omolayo affirmed in December.

The unique energy and inspiration have created a distinctive experience that sets it apart. “It is one of the reasons we are different at Biodun Omolayo Gallery. Let’s raise the bar more for our clients and patrons. We go all out to celebrate their birthdays because they inspire and appreciate what we do. Their presence, our essence,” he explained while supervising some of the work to be displayed on the wall of the gallery inside the princely designed The Art Hotel.

One of the gallery’s greatest strengths is its ability to blend friendship, business relationships, and a passion for art. This intersection has created a vibrant community of artists, enthusiasts, and collectors.

By transcending conventional norms, this Lagos-based art space is forging a new path that celebrates the human experience. Its exquisite features and commitment to excellence have established it as a leader in the visual arts community.

Ultimately, this pioneering approach is redefining the art world – one that prioritises humanity, creativity, and connection.

Kester Enwereonu is a distinguished art collector and patron of the arts. Biodun Omolayo Gallery opened an exhibition in honour of a man of honour at The Art Hotel in Lagos and the world indeed celebrated a man of honour.

This exhibition entitled ‘Let’s Celebrate’ was held in December at The Art Hotel, iBAND Magazine decided to capture the testimonies of guests, friends and associates who came to celebrate with Biodun Omolayo Gallery and Kester Enwereonu

Kester Enwereonu expressed his excitement about the innovative approach taken to celebrate a collector by a prominent gallery. Having followed Biodun Omolayo’s artistic journey for years, he felt this tribute was a fitting recognition. Enwereonu praised Omolayo as a visionary, likening him to the legendary Ben Enwonwu, and hailing him as a future giant in the art world.

Chris Igwe (OFR) on Kester Enwereonu

“I have had the pleasure of knowing Kester Enwereonu for over a decade, and I can confidently attest to his exceptional character. He is a true friend, always willing to lend a listening ear and offer sage advice. Kester’s kindness, generosity, and philanthropic spirit are qualities that make him stand out. His contributions to my community, particularly in securing electricity, are immeasurable. I am honored to call him a friend and brother. Kester Enwereonu is a shining example of a life well-lived, and I wish him continued blessings and success.”

Chris Igwe (OFR) on Biodun Omolayo Gallery

“I was deeply moved by the artwork on display at the exhibition, particularly the pieces that celebrated femininity. As someone who holds women in high esteem, including my mother, wife, and daughter, I felt a strong connection to the artwork. The pieces not only showcased the beauty and strength of women but also highlighted their virtues and power. I am eager to acquire more artwork from Biodun Omallayo Gallery and establish a lasting relationship with the gallery. The artwork will adorn my office space, serving as a reminder of the importance of honoring and celebrating women.”

Paul Idibe, a member of staff in Kester Enwereonu’s organisation

“Kester Enwereonu is my boss. He is a man of his words. His relationship with his team is very cordial and encourages us to reach our goals.

Being a boss, he wants to be part of the problems as well as the solutions. He refuses to remain aloof of your challenges.

Kester Enwereonu is a fast thinker. He proffers solutions to issues ahead of time.

Secondly, he has set up a structure in his firm that everybody counts. His attention to human capital is just very high as he believes in goal – setting. And due to this, the entire staff sees themselves as part and parcel of the organisation. They are ready to give everything to protect the image of the organisation. Kester Enwereonu runs a no – discriminatory policy around him.”

Mr. Mike, a seasoned lawyer and friend to Kester Enwereonu

Mr. Mike, a lawyer and friend met Kester Enwereonu in 1985 at the University to study law They also attended the Law School together as well. ‘Let’s Celebrate’ exhibition was his first time of experiencing an art exhibition.

“Family and friendship mean a lot to me. I am so dedicated to my firends and to my family. Kester Enwereonu is an example of a good friemd. He can be trusted, has a listening ear and reliable.

Mr. Mike says that he enjoys and appreciate art in his natural forms.

Prince (Dr) Bassey, a legal practitioner is a great friend of Kester Enwereonu since 1983.

He maintains that friendship and family are symbolic with natural flair. They are cherished possessions like a piece of artwork.”

Dr. Bassey collects arwork once in a while. Art admiration is interesting and alluring.

Naturally, he was an artist. He won many awards as a 12 year – old art student in organised art competitions by the then, old East -Central State.

Unfortunately, law is a jealous profession.

.Chinyere Isiocha, a friend and art ehthusiast
“It is a womderful feeling here to celebrate Kester Enwereonu and also witness an exhibition.

I love the work entitled ‘Meditations’ an abstract because of what it represents. Truly, the work embodies our true inner minds so many times when we are going through life.

What an exhibition to behold!”

Interviews/Article/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/iBAND Magazine