Shifting Perspectives: Akporode Abinoro’s Impact on Evolution of Contemporary Art in Nigeria

A new chapter is unfolding—one shaped by the visionary work of sculptor Akporode Abinoro in the vibrant tapestry of Nigeria’s artistic landscape.

Born from the rich cultural heritage of Delta State and now residing in Lagos, Abinoro’s journey reflects the dynamic evolution of contemporary art in Nigeria.

His unique approach to sculpture has not only captivated audiences but also sparked a renaissance in how art is perceived and valued in the country.

Through his formative years at the School of Art and Design at Auchi Polytechnic, Abinoro immersed himself in the exploration of various mediums, seeking to redefine the boundaries of traditional sculpture.

This is a journey that brought about the use of stainless steel cutlery as a medium in art practice; not just as an extra material but as a base or fundamental medium.

While traditional mediums are and still are relevant in art practice it has become necessary that artists step beyond these boundaries to explore new experiences with materials that are not conventional in art.

While recycling or scrap art is not new to the art world, Abinoro says scrap art has been the use of discarded materials such as scrapes from vehicles, driftwood, and plastics, among other industrial and household materials, and converting them into mediums of expression in art creation.

After graduating in 2012, he began his journey in the world of scrap art. He, however, described his mediums as repurposed art even though he started with discarded materials.

According to the artist, scrap art involves materials that can be traditional and non-traditional materials that have gone to waste.

Whilst in repurposed materials it’s the use of traditional or non-traditional materials that have not necessarily gone to waste or scrap. “Simply put it involves giving life to materials without first letting them go to waste,” he clarified.

“Waste is the basic cause of the climate menace in the world today,” says Abinoro. “Inevitably, we all contribute to the waste culture in our society either in small or large amounts; from plastics to metal materials which has resulted in global flooding in cities around the world. As long as our waste culture in non-degradable materials is not well managed, this situation is never slowing down any time soon.”

However, he believes that the practice of repurposed materials culture can greatly help with how nondegradable materials are managed.

He sees art as a vital tool to reach and engage in building connections with people, and has exploited repurposed materials; stainless steel cutlery and papers over a decade which he has established as an acceptable medium in art.

“I can clearly state that in a world where the climate crisis is a reality, upcycling, recycling, and repurposing materials in art is a clear future in the fight against waste materials that have become a problem in our environment.

“Artists around the world who have exploited this tirelessly have not just recycled these materials but created highly valuable pieces of art that also engage in contemporary conversations,” he added.

Abinoro’s efforts have also been paying off with the growing collection of his works and public commissions — of his work for Cop28 last December by the Emirates of Ajman tourism in the creation of an elegant Arabic horse.

This project takes inspiration from the esteemed horses engrained in Arabic culture, symbolising prestige, nobility and affluence.

The UAE, a hub for renowned equestrian activities, is committed to preserving this rich heritage across generations, paying homage to the art of horsemanship.

Supported by the Ajman Tourism Development Department, this artwork was created from an assemblage of over 3000 used cutleries. It also saw the infusion of cultural kitchen items such as knives, pots, coffee kettles, and tea cups all to create more historically relevant pieces.

United for Climate, an initiative by ZeeArt in collaboration with COP28, is propelled by a vision to honor the essence of unity through the realms of art, environmental consciousness, and community engagement. It serves as a powerful testament to the role of art in bridging culture and fostering environmental stewardship.

The piece which measures about 84x105x48 inches was a huge spectacle for the COP28 event in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates which hosted world leaders and climate change stakeholders for the 2023 climate change world conference.

“Art has the power to transcend boundaries and ignite change,” remarked Abinoro. “Through my sculptures, I seek to provoke dialogue, challenge perceptions, and inspire others to embrace diversity and inclusivity.”

As Abinoro continues to push the boundaries of artistic expression, his influence reverberates far beyond the confines of his studio. He is not simply sculpting figures; he is sculpting the future of Nigerian art—one masterpiece at a time.