In Anticipation of Trio’s Shared Visions at Didi Museum 

Emmanuel Ndogo

An art exhibition featuring the works of three artists—Ogochukwu Ejiofor, Adedoyin Bello-Adelani, and Ohiolei Ohiwerei—will open May 25 at the Didi Museum in Victoria Island, Lagos. The exhibition, titled Through My Eyes, will be on until June 29.

During a press preview on the morning of Tuesday, May 7, at 11 a.m., inside the distinguished Didi Museum’s legacy space, the talented exhibition curator, Moses Ohiomokhare, eloquently unveiled the artists, articulating the exhibition’s captivating theme. Concluding the introduction with insightful depth in his curatorial essay, his ardent wish was for this innovative exhibition to ignite the visitors’ curiosity, as the distinctive works of the three artists exude a captivating brilliance through an array of vivid and captivating colours.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, Didi Museum’s head curator, Patrick Odimfe, narrated the story of Didi Museum, which, as the first private museum in the country, was established in 1983 by the civil engineer, Newton Jibunoh.

Ohiolei Ohiwerei, one of the exhibiting artists, stands out as the sole male among the trio of artists, besides the fact that he is a sculptor. Working meticulously with the unforgiving medium of bronze, the University of Benin graduate of sculpture draws inspiration from the organic beauty of nature and the unadorned authenticity of human life. The fact that he is an indigene of the historic city of Benin explains why his works are deeply rooted in the rich tapestry of his indigenous heritage.

Also at the press preview, one of the two female artists, Ogochukwu Ejiofor, gracefully articulated her deep-rooted connection to her muse, women. Ejiofor, who holds a BA from the University of Nigeria Nsukka and a Master’s degree from the University of Benin, passionately stated that her inspiration stems from female camaraderie, highlighting the theme as “when women gather through my eyes.” Delving into the intricate social fabric, she illuminates the profound support women offer each other, often beyond men’s grasp. She fervently believes in the uniqueness of women’s struggles, asserting that, despite individual nuances, a shared sisterhood fosters empathy and understanding. She cites, as a poignant example, how a single woman can intuitively grasp and empathise with the challenges faced by a fellow woman navigating marriage and pregnancy.

Finally, Adedoyin Bello-Adelani, the other female artist, channels her creativity through a fusion of paint and embroidery. Through her intricate pieces, she weaves a narrative portraying the lived experiences of women, showcasing resilience and empowerment. Bello, who is an HND holder in painting from the Lagos State Polytechnic, now recognised as the Lagos State University of Technology, draws inspiration from the strength and innocence of women and young girls, highlighting the constant battle that women face to establish themselves in society. Her art boldly challenges conventional notions of femininity and amplifies the multifaceted essence of womanhood.

•Ndogo writes from Lagos