Art Masters’ Messages of Joy Amidst Chaos

Yinka Olatunbosun

It is no coincidence that a collective comprising seasoned artists have echoed the spirit of optimism in a group exhibition in Lagos. The 49 artworks hanging on Wheatbaker’s walls at the ongoing exhibition presented by SMO Contemporary Art possess strong messages of hope, love, and joy in the midst of chaos and hardships in Nigeria and the world.

The exhibition titled, “Joy” is a parade of an eclectic collection of paintings, sketches, sculptures and mixed media specially made by some members of the Guild of Professional Fine Artists (GFA) for the exhibition.

Sandra Mbanefo Obiago, Founder of SMO Contemporary Art who joined the discussion virtually disclosed that the exhibition would run for 45 days and would be opened to the public. “This exhibition collectively conveys messages of hope and resilience and takes viewers on a captivating journey through a multitude of themes including environmental concerns, the state of our nation, culture, tradition, and the joy of reaching creative dependence.

Sandra who is also Wheatbaker’s long-standing art curator described the theme, “Joy” as the current state of the exhibiting artists, many of whom have taught and mentored generations of younger artists through academic courses, workshops, studio internships, and apprenticeships.

“They have exhibited their works in Nigeria and abroad and have collectively made huge sacrifices and contributions to the development and growth of contemporary art in Africa. This long creative path is the essence of their joy.”

Through the artworks, one could tell that there’s a striking balance between life realities and an attempt by the artists to paint a positive image around negativities.

These magical experiences are seen in Norbert Okpu’s three pieces titled ‘Celebration, Memories, and Ekombi in High Spirit’. Portraits by Edozie and Norbert celebrate our culture, wealth, and diversity. While Abiodun Olaku, Ade Ogindimu, and Joshua Nmesirionye explore our unique cityscapes and the universal theme of nature’s healing power.

Also works by Gerry Nnubia, Duke Asidere, Diseye Tantua, and Tayo Quaye serve as political commentaries, addressing the social-political difficulties experienced at a challenging time in our nation. In the same vein, Emenike’s heavy impasto paintings tackle environmental issues due to global warming, including desertification and flooding, and their serious impacts on the lives of rural and urban communities across Africa.

‘Joy’ also reinforces the essence of urban and rural life shedding light on the importance of love peace, and safety with families and communities as depicted in the works of Edosa Ogiugo titled, ‘After-hours’ as well as works by Gbenga Offo, Aimufia Osagie and Fidelis Odogwu.

Speaking on the Guild’s collaboration with SMO, George Edozie, President of the Guild of Professional Fine Artists said, “The Guild does not show anywhere and anyhow. We dim it fit that SMO is a good platform and we partnered with them, and we are showing at Wheatbaker and bringing smiles to the faces of Nigerians.

“Going by what is happening in the country right now, there is sadness everywhere, there is hunger, and we want to bring joy to people’s faces. We have been talking with SMO and we have shifted this show a couple of times so that everybody will be available. Some of the artists came back from the US and UK. We have been talking with SMO since last year; we were supposed to have this show last year but we had to shift it. We were looking for the best time to have it and get as many members as we could in attendance.”