Imafidor Set to Execute Monumental Sculpture in Ibadan
By Yinka Olatunbosun
US based Nigerian artist, Jonathan Imafidor has been commissioned by the Oyo State government to create a monumental sculpture to be installed in Olunloyo Airport Park, Ibadan.
The monument stands at an impressive 65ft tall, 15ft wide and a base of height 25ft by width 15ft and will be cast in concrete to support three figures made out of scrap metal measuring: height 40ft by width 15ft and depth 15ft.
Crafted from reclaimed scrap metals, it would emerge as a powerful symbol of cultural heritage.
Raised in Uneme-Nekhua, his artistic journey in the last two decades has traversed the realm of traditional canvas painting and expanded to encompass large-scale murals. His sculptures are often made of found metal objects.
In a virtual encounter, he revealed that the proposed monumental sculpture will serve as a testament to his creativity.
“This awe-inspiring sculpture will feature three towering human figures, resplendent in their majesty, standing atop an intricately crafted pedestal. Among these figures, two will symbolise the valiant male and female warriors of the ancient Oyo Kingdom, embodying the region’s rich history and indomitable spirit.
“The Olunloyo Airport Park, known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance, is selected as the location where this magnificent sculpture will be installed.
“The prominent position within the park will ensure that the artwork is accessible to residents and visitors alike. And upon completion, the towering 65ft masterpiece will firmly establish itself as the tallest scrap metal sculpture in the entire nation, thereby propelling Ibadan to the forefront of artistic innovation and cultural significance,” he said.
With more than four international awards, 23 sculptural pieces in public places in Nigeria, Turkey, France, United States of America and 17 group, joint and solo exhibitions spanning 13 years, Imafidor’s artistic achievements stand as a testament to his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to his craft.
The entire sculpture, rooted in traditional Yoruba history and culture, parades iconic figures in Oyo’s history.
“The female warrior represents one of the most popular female warriors in the history of the Oyo Empire known as Queen Moremi Ajasoro. She lived during the 12th century and was married to the king of Ife, a neighbouring kingdom to Oyo.
“When the Oyo Empire was facing invasion from a rival tribe, the Igbo, Moremi volunteered to act as a spy and infiltrated the enemy camp. She gathered vital information and shared it with the Oyo warriors, enabling them to successfully defend their kingdom. Moremi’s bravery and strategic contributions made her a revered figure and a symbol of courage and sacrifice.
“The male figure represents the most renowned male warrior known as Balogun Ogunmola. He was a legendary military commander who lived in the 18th century and possessed exceptional leadership skills. He was known for his tactical brilliance on the battlefield.
He noted that these two individuals, Queen Moremi Ajasoro and Balogun Ogunmola, exemplify the valour and heroism displayed by warriors of old in the Oyo Empire adding, “Their stories continue to inspire and resonate with generations, serving as a testament to the rich history and martial traditions of the Oyo people, the third figure is a drummer.
“The drummers of the Old Oyo Empire were highly skilled musicians and respected members of society. They dedicated their lives to mastering the art of drumming and passed down their knowledge from generation to generation.
“Their contributions to communication, entertainment, and religious ceremonies were invaluable, shaping the cultural fabric of the Oyo Empire,” he added.
The presence of the drummers emphasises the importance of music and its role in Oyo’s culture, while the satellite dish symbolises Oyo’s pioneering achievement in broadcasting and technological advancement. The duration for the completion of the monument according to the artist is expected to take between seven to nine months.
In 2009, the artist achieved a first-class degree in painting, breaking the 20-year First-class class hiatus in the Department of Fine Arts and Applied Arts, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.
