Interweaving Nature and Culture in Dual Exhibition

Yinka Olatunbosun

In step with its tradition of celebrating contemporary African art and foster cultural dialogue, Windsor Gallery nestled in Victoria Island, Lagos presents two exhibitions namely ‘The Eighth Continent’ featuring works of Duke Asidere and Mederic Turay and ‘Mouvements Poetiques’- a solo show by Didier Viode.

On his part, Asidere, celebrated for his fearless use of colour and powerful societal insights, creates a visual dialogue that interweaves abstraction with poignant social commentary. With artistry drawn from his art education at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, under the guidance of Gani Odutokun, Asidere has etched his name in other learning institutions including the Auchi School of Art where he made significant contributions by grooming protégées that produce unique works of a different temperament.

Asidere’s canvases, vibrant and complex, explore themes of identity, emotion, and historical depth, offering fragments of this uncharted continent that invite viewers to delve into Africa’s contemporary narratives and ever-evolving cultural landscape.

Asidere’s works serve as symbolic maps to this new world, each brushstroke an invitation to explore deeper layers of self and society. One of his pieces titled ‘Real and Unreal’ is a mixed media abstract painting with newspaper as symbol of social commentary.

The Unseen Web by Mederic Turay trails the pattern in his resonant figurative abstractions, brings forth a dynamic engagement with ancestry, spirituality, and multicultural influences. Turay’s textured and compelling compositions convey a continuum of global stories, reflecting connections across the African diaspora.

Les Invisibles by Didier Viode is a product of his skillful use of colours. Viode works in various media, including painting, drawing, and mixed media installations. Viode’s style is often characterised by expressive lines, bold colours, anddynamic compositions that capture the essence of his subjects, whether they are
dancers, athletes, or everyday individuals.

While “The Eighth Continent” becomes a timeless experience that transcends cultural boundaries and geographic markers, “Mouvements Poétiques” becomes a poetic journey that highlights the beauty and force of human movement in its many forms.

This Dual Exhibition will be on display from November 1, 2024 to November 29, 2024.