Exhibitions

‘In The Midst of Chaos’, an exhibition bringing together the dynamic works of renowned artists Ade Adekola, Mobolaji Ogunrosoye and Orry Shenjobi

In the Midst of Chaos was borne out of what we recognised as a needed rallying call to remind us all to rise above the noise and find the space to hope again. Often in mediation classes we are tasked to find something to focus our gaze on in order to quiet out the noise and find our centre. I believe the works of the artists for this show can be used as just that, a tool to recenter yourself in the midst of the chaos.

The artists featured have an obvious common ground, each have their practice centred upon their unique manipulation of photography. In addition to that however, it is their different layering techniques that form the final outcome of the initial photographic image.

Mobolaji Ogunrosoye’s Sketch of Portrait series is a double entendre of layering. First we get to go back to Ogunrosoye’s initial conceptualisation phase, in essence the first layer before some of the pieces shown are developed to larger manifestations of the initial ideation.

Orry Shenjobi works in steps to achieve her layered pieces. The initial scouting and photography of everyday scenes, transferring photography to canvas, and then adding depth through the addition of oil paint on certain clothing elements within the scene. Shenjobi’s art brings to the forefront two subjects in conversation with very dense and textured clothing, but even in the background, the scene is not without its own activity.

In the realm of Ade Adekola’s artistry, the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, as the photographic image transforms into a tapestry of vibrant hues and textures. Emir of Kano is a piece that beckons the viewer to step into its kaleidoscopic world, where the subject’s distinct colours mesmerise and the intricate motifs in the background whisper secrets of a rich cultural heritage.

“Visions of Home: Lagos to Accra” brings together works from Cornelius Annor, Orry Shenjobi, Olamide Ogunade and Nana Bruce.

Together, these artists situated in two of the most vibrant art capitals in West Africa, present a multifaceted vision of home, weaving together personal narratives and turning the lens on dynamic public spaces.

“Visions of Home: Lagos to Accra” invites viewers to be a part of the dialogue between these two cities.

A Woman’s Woman’s Woman’s World, curated by Hausen Gallery, Brooklyn.

Presented with Made In Arts London at the Affordable Art Fair.

Orry Shenjobi: “Beauty Within The Struggle”, Angels and Muse, Lagos, NG