On October 4, 2025, the National Museum, Onikan, Lagos, will transform into a hub of creativity and mentorship as Grandmaster Kunle Adeyemi and twenty-five artists present the exhibition Testament of Legacy, Time and Space. Beyond being just another art show, this gathering embodies the story of discipline, courage, and the passing of artistic heritage across generations. Here are five things to look out for. Words Ireho Aito

Kunle Adeyemi’s Masterpieces

The Grandmaster himself will be showcasing up to five works and each embodying decades of exploration in painting, printmaking, and mixed media. His works are not just art; they are lessons in discipline, spirituality, and resilience. For many visitors, this will be the rare chance to encounter Adeyemi’s vision in conversation with that of his mentees. Kunle Adeyemi has been a busy bee since his retirement as a teacher at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos. The class act artist has participated in landmark exhibitions such as the exhibition of the Nine Grandmasters in Printmaking and Lineage of Masters in honour of Professor. Yusuf Grillo. Also, Kunle Adeyemi has done multiple solo exhibitions as part of the valedictory program celebrate his retirement.

The Special 25 Emerging Voices
The group is made up old collaborators with Kunle Adeyemi Studios in the last four decades. They have been part of the KAS brand, either as IT students, mentees and others brought in to serve apprenticeship and more. Kunle Adeyemi Studios, has given life and bred investment into the lives of young people. Some have grown with the help of the brand.

Each of the participating artists will present two works, creating a dynamic spectrum of youthful imagination and experimental spirit. From Ayomide Ajose’s striking charcoal drawings to Lotachukwu Ayogu-Eze’s contemporary explorations, the exhibition offers fresh perspectives rooted in mentorship yet branching into new creative languages.

A Blend of Techniques and Mediums

Expect to see everything from paintings to paintocasts, paintographs, prints, and mixed media installations. This diversity reflects the experimental environment of Kunle Adeyemi Studios (KAS), where young talents are encouraged to push boundaries and redefine the meaning of contemporary Nigerian art.

A Curatorial Touch by Dr. Bukola Jayesinmi

The exhibition is guided by the thoughtful eye of Dr. Bukola Jayesinmi, whose curatorial vision ensures that the works do more than sit side by side. They are curated to speak to one another. This approach creates a dialogue of time, space, and legacy, weaving together the voices of both master and mentees.

The Spirit of Mentorship and Legacy

Perhaps the most profound takeaway will be the atmosphere itself. Adeyemi has long insisted that education and discipline are the bedrock of success. This exhibition is not only a showcase of artworks but a testimony to his lifelong mission of grooming artists who can stand independently while carrying forward a tradition of excellence. Visitors will feel the energy of legacy being handed down, reimagined, and celebrated.

Testament of Legacy, Time and Space is more than an exhibition. It is a celebration of mentorship, courage, and the transformative power of creativity. For anyone who values art not just as an object but as a living dialogue between generations, this show is one not to be missed.

Words Ireho Aito/ Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger! Photographs courtesy Kunle Adeyemi Studios