Growing up in Ibadan, in the lively neighbourhood of Mokola, many of us spent our childhood darting around the unfinished grounds of the Mokola Cultural Centre, rolling our discarded tyres to the construction site, my best companion was Azuka and watching construction workers shape what would become a city landmark. At the time, we had no idea that the creative force behind that masterpiece was none other than Demas Nwoko. It wasn’t until we were much older, old enough to grow beards and appreciate the weight of genius that his name rose to meet the memory of that iconic structure. Today, the celebrated professor, artist, architect, and cultural visionary is being honoured with a special birthday tribute. This is a fitting salute to a man whose work continues to define and inspire generations.

Words Ireho Aito | Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!

At ninety, Demas Nwoko stands as one of Africa’s most distinguished artistic visionaries, an architect, designer, stage creator, thinker, and cultural custodian whose influence continues to shape generations. In honour of this towering legacy, Adegbola Gallery presents Where Work Lives, a two-city exhibition that delves into the depth and breadth of Nwoko’s creative universe.

Opening first at the historic New Culture Studios in Ibadan from 12–13 December 2025, and continuing at Adegbola Gallery, Victoria Island, from 17 December 2025 to 25 January 2026, the exhibition gathers rare archival materials, photographs, sketches, models and design works that trace Nwoko’s decades of experimentation and innovation.

It is an intimate encounter with the mind of a man who has consistently defied boundaries, merging modernity with indigenous sensibilities, and crafting a distinct Nigerian.

“Where Work Lives” is a tribute to a life devoted to cultural imagination. Visitors are invited to experience the physical and philosophical spaces where Nwoko’s work flourished in his studios, his processes, and the creative spirit that has guided his journey.

From the architecture of New Culture Studios to the theatrical genius that defined his early career, and the quiet boldness embedded in his design ethos, the exhibition offers a rare window into the making of a master.

Demas Nwoko’s architectural legacy extends across Nigeria, marked by culturally rooted, environmentally responsive landmarks. His iconic portfolio includes the New Culture Studio in Ibadan, the Dominican Monastery in Ibadan, the Oba Akenzua Theatre in Benin City, the Benedictine Monastery in Ewu, and his celebrated family house and studio in Idumuje-Ugboko. Together, these structures embody Nwoko’s fusion of modern design with traditional African aesthetics, cementing his place as one of Nigeria’s most influential artistic visionaries.

As the art world gathers to celebrate Demas Nwoko at 90, Where Work Lives stands as a reminder of the power of enduring vision and a call to preserve, study, and honour the legacy of one of Nigeria’s most influential cultural pioneers.