Art Africa

Art Africa, in collaboration with the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA) -Lagos Chapter, proudly presents Transformative Journey (Ìrìn Àjò)—a captivating group exhibition that explores the essence of transformation through art.

Featuring works by renowned artists;

Hassan Aliyu -
Maria Paris - .p.official
Akin Okusami -
Ade Ogundimu
Kolawole Olojo-Kosoko
Ayoola Omovo
Michael Fashakin
Andrew Akinbodewa
Gift Udochukwu -
Gbolade Omidiran -
Asiko (Ade Okelarin) -
Onome Olotu -
Sani Sani -

This exhibition is a must-see for all art lovers.

Venue: Omaka Gallery
47-49 Durham St, London SE11 5JA
Date: 20th October - 3rd November, 2024.

Embark on a captivating journey of self-discovery and community at the Contours of Belonging exhibition. This groundbreaking multimedia exhibition uses jewellery as a lens to explore the profound impact our environments, heritage & migration has on our sense of home and belonging.
This innovative exhibition transcends the boundaries of a traditional art show. It’s an artistic invitation, prompting you to reflect on your own concepts of home, belonging, and the power of connection to the places we inhabit. Through stories and stunning jewellery creations, the exhibition asks: What does belonging truly mean?
Contours of Belonging is a call to action. It reminds us that being a good neighbour goes beyond sharing a physical space. It’s about fostering genuine connections, celebrating diverse experiences, and discovering the hidden depths of your own community.
This exhibition is more than just an art show; it’s an invitation to discover the potential for meaningful connections with the people who share your world.
Elements of exhibition co-created from Redbridge residents.

Title: Embracing Humanity
Artist: Agboola Emmanuel
Dimensions: 152.4 cm x 121.92 cm
Medium: Acrylic

Artist: Elijah Ajayi
Title: Only one
Dimensions: 30.5 cm x 45 cm
Medium: Canvas | Paint

This mosaic-like composition features an array of bright primary colors—red, blue, and yellow—intermixed with greens, oranges, and blacks, creating a lively and energetic feel. The central focus of the artwork is a stylized face, divided into distinct sections, each adorned with unique patterns and textures. The intricate designs include checkered patterns, floral motifs, and abstract shapes, all meticulously layered to provide a sense of depth and richness. The single eye in the upper part of the face symbolizes perception and vision, suggesting a deeper narrative about the complexity of identity and the fusion of various cultural influences. "Only One" celebrates the idea of multiculturalism and individuality, highlighting how diverse elements can come together to form a cohesive and harmonious whole. This artwork is not just a visual feast but also a statement on the multifaceted nature of human experience.

Artist: Ahmed Partey
Title: Adjei
Dimensions: 83.8 cm x 76.2 cm
Medium: Acrylic

Part V of a series of 10 paintings titled Revelation of Black spirits. These paintings are an alternative glimpse into the portraiture of spirit beings. This artwork is a modern representation of African masks. Masks that capture the essence of ancestral figures in a colourful kente style backdrop. The blade grass wrapped around the figure captures the essence of nature.

Artist: Ahmed Partey
Title: Adjei
Dimensions: 83.8 cm x 76.2 cm
Medium: Acrylic

Part V of a series of 10 paintings titled Revelation of Black spirits. These paintings are an alternative glimpse into the portraiture of spirit beings. This artwork is a modern representation of African masks. Masks that capture the essence of ancestral figures in a colourful kente style backdrop. The blade grass wrapped around the figure captures the essence of nature.

Artist: Ahmed Partey
Title: Anonymous II
Dimensions: 91.4 cm x 86.3 cm
Medium: Acrylic

Part VI of a series of 10 paintings titled revelation of Black spirits. These paintings are an alternative glimpse into the portraiture of spirit beings. This artwork is a modern representation of African masks. Masks that capture the essence of ancestral figures in a colourful kente style backdrop.

Artist: Parris Maria
Title: Strap
Dimensions: 30 cm x 40 cm
Medium: Oil

Figurative oil painting of a young girl with bracelets. Work on canvas draw with classic canvas. African woman inspiration, I am very inspired by African women. I love painting beautiful African women in natural positions from common life.

Artist: Paris Maria
Title: You are Gold
Dimensions: 30 cm x 40 cm
Medium: Oil

Fashion portrait of a dark-skinned woman with gold makeup oil on canvas, I've started a collection called Black and Gold, a collection with unique and original works, oil paintings of magnificent portraits of incredibly beautiful women.

Artist: Paris Maria
Title: Face of Africa “Lights and Shadows”
Dimensions: 30 cm x 40 cm
Medium: Oil

Oil on canvas glaze. Naked woman, black woman, Dressed in your colour which is life, In your shape which is beauty. I grew up in your shadow; the softness of your hands bandaged my eyes. And now, in the heart of Summer and Midi, I discover you, Promised Land, From the top of a high burnt pass. And your beauty strikes me right in the heart, like an eagle's lightning... BLACK WOMAN BY LÉOPOLD SÉDAR SENGHOR

Patrick Rulore, born in Johannesburg, started his artistic journey after completing his matriculation in 2013. He initially focused on commissioned portraits before pursuing formal education, earning a National Diploma in Arts from Tshwane University of Technology in 2021.

His work vividly portrays the daily lives of those around him, often set against the serene backdrop of nighttime. This setting allows him to capture intimate and contemplative moments, highlighting the subtle details and emotions that emerge as the day fades. Through his art, he aims to reflect the quiet beauty and complexity of ordinary life, revealing stories and experiences that are often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of daylight.

Since 2015, Rulore has participated in numerous group exhibitions, including prominent showcases in India, Brooklyn, and various galleries in South Africa. His talent gained recognition with selections in the Top 100 of the Sasol New Signatures competition in 2017 and the Top Painting accolade in 2018. His achievements continued with his artwork being selected among the top 15 best artworks in the Thami Mnyele Art Award in 2019 and 2022. He won the 2019 Sasol New Signatures Award for his piece "Stage 4 Moments," leading to a notable exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum in 2021. His work is featured in prestigious collections such as Sasol, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria Art Museum, and various private collections both nationally and internationally, establishing him as a prominent figure in contemporary art.

Abongile Sidzumo was born in Cape Town, where he still lives and works. He graduated with a degree in Fine Arts from the Michaelis School of Fine Arts in 2019.

Sidzumo uses leather scraps and recycled materials in his art to explore humanity, how we live together, and our connection to nature. He draws on memories and the places he's lived, focusing on the daily lives of marginalized communities. By stitching and weaving leather—a material often linked with luxury and power—he challenges us to think about reusing materials. This process also symbolizes healing from the trauma black communities experienced during apartheid, reflecting on ongoing recovery in post-apartheid South Africa.

His work was part of “We’ve Come to Take You Home,” an exhibition of pieces recently acquired by the University of Cape Town. Sidzumo won the Blessing Ngobeni Art Prize, which led to a solo exhibition at Everard Read Gallery in Johannesburg in 2020. That same year, he was a runner-up for the Cassirer Welz Award, hosted by Strauss & Co auctioneers.

Salako Olajide, from Badagry, Lagos, is a dynamic and prolific professional artist known for his remarkable talent in painting. He established his educational foundation with a National Certificate of Education (NCE) from Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education in Ijanikin, Lagos, graduating in 2009.

Salako's art is characterized by a deep engagement with his subjects, often exploring themes that resonate with a broad audience. His dedication and passion for art continue to make a significant impact on the contemporary art scene. His art is characterized by a deep engagement with his subjects, often exploring themes that resonate with a broad audience. His dedication and passion for art continue to make a significant impact on the contemporary art scene.

Under the mentorship of master artists at the Universal Studios of Art, located at the National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, Salako has evolved significantly, becoming an integral member of the studio. As a full-time studio artist, he brings an innovative spirit to his work, continuously contributing to the vibrant artistic community.

Akinbanji Osanyemi, based in Lagos, is a self-taught visual artist and an economics graduate from Joseph Ayo Babalola University in Osun State, Nigeria. Known for his keen observational skills, he excels in the art of realism, particularly in his adept representation of subjects through drawing on planes.

Eager to refine his craft, he dedicated himself to enhancing his technical skills, with a strong focus on shading, understanding proportion, and achieving balance in his work. His artistic philosophy emphasizes flexibility and contemporary richness, believing that art should not only showcase individual skills but also serve as a powerful medium for addressing societal issues. His innovative spirit shines through his versatility, evident in his striking charcoal drawings and unique collages combined with painting and other materials. This blend of techniques allows him to create works that are both realistic and surrealistic, pushing the boundaries of traditional art forms.

Practising art professionally, Akinbanji has participated in numerous exhibitions in Lagos, Nigeria, and London, making a significant mark on the contemporary art scene. His work is a testament to his unyielding pursuit of innovation and his commitment to using art as a tool for meaningful expression.

Skumbuzo Vabaza, known professionally as 'Skubalisto', is a vibrant visual artist residing in Cape Town, South Africa. Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, Skubalisto’s formative years were shaped by his parents’ political exile during their twenties. This profound historical and political context deeply informs his artistic vision.

With a foundation in street art, Skubalisto primarily creates portraits in a contemporary expressionist style. His artworks, which range from vivid murals to detailed canvas paintings, utilize an array of mediums, including spray paint, acrylic, oil pastel, charcoal, and ink. This versatility enables him to delve into and convey intricate themes with richness and subtlety. Skubalisto’s work is infused with social consciousness, functioning as visual journals that mirror the world’s state at the time of their creation. Each piece comprises a collection of ideas and narratives, capturing the socio-political environment and personal stories that motivate him. His street art background adds immediacy and authenticity to his work, delivering potent commentaries on modern life and issues.

Segun Caezar is a Canada-based artist whose work is characterized by a fascination with the power of simple shapes to convey complex ideas. His background in realistic art is evident in his pieces, which often display keen attention to detail and mastery of traditional techniques. Although Segun has transitioned to a more minimalist approach, his roots in realism continue to inform his artistic style, adding a unique depth to his work.

He combines the precision of realistic art with the expressive potential of simple shapes and vibrant colours, creating works that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. His minimalist forms convey rich and diverse themes, inviting viewers to engage with their imaginations and interpretations. By blending realism with minimalism, Segun creates a space for dialogue and discovery, leveraging the power of art to foster emotional connections and provoke thoughtful reflection.

Oguntola Taiwo, born in Lagos State, Nigeria, is a visionary visual artist known for his work with mixed media, including charcoal pencil and acrylic paint on canvas. Taiwo pursued his studies in Art and Industrial Design, earning an OND degree from Lagos State Polytechnic in 2019.

Taiwo's body of work celebrates African women and their unique hairstyles, portraying them as symbols of identity, strength, and beauty. Each piece he creates tells a compelling story, blending historical and contemporary elements, cultural heritage, and personal reflections. The bold and delicate aspects of his artwork mirror the complex experiences of African women, highlighting their resilience and grace. He employs a unique fusion of unconventional mediums, combining charcoal pencil, acrylic paint, and mixed media on canvas. This innovative approach breathes life into his creations, making them stand out in the art world. His work captivates audiences by evoking powerful emotions and inviting viewers to reflect on the profound themes of African female identity.

Olu Amoda is a veteran Nigerian artist. He has dedicated over three decades to developing a distinct sculptural language characterized by its unique beauty and character. He works across various mediums, including sculpture, muralism, furniture design, and multimedia art. He graduated in sculpture from Auchi Polytechnic, Nigeria, and earned a Master’s Degree in Fine Arts from Georgia Southern University, USA.

Olu is renowned for his innovative use of repurposed materials sourced from consumer culture's detritus, such as rusty nails, metal plates, bolts, pipes, and rods. These elements are meticulously welded together to form figures, animals, flora, and abstract forms. His works delves into socio-political issues relevant to contemporary Nigerian culture, addressing themes like politics, race, conflict, consumerism, and economic distribution.

He has completed residencies at Villa Arson (France), The Bag Factory (South Africa), Appalachian State University (North Carolina), and the New York Design Museum. His works are included in notable collections, including the Newark Museum and Fondation Blachère. Olu has exhibited his works at esteemed institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum (UK), the Museum of Art and Design (New York), Skoto Gallery (New York), Georgia Southern University (USA), Didi Museum (Nigeria), WIPO Headquarters (Switzerland), and Art Twenty One (Nigeria).

Buqaqawuli Nobakada is a rising contemporary mixed media artist. She was born in the Western Cape and grew up between Philippi and a small village in Lady Frere, Eastern Cape. She graduated with a degree in Fine Arts from the University of the Witwatersrand.

Her primary medium is acrylic paint on laced paper, and she often adds custom clay or gold jewellery to her artwork. Her pieces celebrate the idea of crossing borders in the imagination, mind, and real life, showing her unique views and experiences. This mix of materials and themes highlights her creative style and deep connection with her subjects.

Buqaqawuli's work has been featured in several exhibitions. She has participated in the "Everything was beautiful and nothing hurt" Open City group exhibition by FNB Art Joburg and the SOMA exhibition in France. These showcases demonstrate her growing influence in the art world and her ability to connect with a wide audience.

Abiola Abdulwareez Olabamiji was born in Odo-ona Elewe, Ibadan, Nigeria. His early fascination with art began in elementary school, inspired by a neighbour's artistic skills that brought joy to him and his friends. Trained and mentored by Mr. Tope Fatunmbi at the Topfat Art Gallery in Adamasingba, Ibadan, Abiola has drawn significant inspiration from renowned artist Chuck Close. He began his professional practice in 2021, using art to explore and express the inner hardships and resilience of the African man.

Abiola's paintings are distinguished by an innovative approach that meticulously attends to his subjects' skin, depicted in black hues enriched by palm frond patterns, textures, and mark-making in shades of brown, purple, and green. Executed in oil and acrylic on canvas, his works showcase the contemporary life of the African man while giving a metaphysical expression to the importance, dignity, and stability of black culture, particularly Yoruba philosophy. "In my paintings, I use the texture of palm fronds on the skin to represent the palm tree's qualities as a whole. I believe black life is like a palm tree: strong against the powerful storms and winds, with all of its parts playing a crucial role. Hence, an African man is strong and important in every aspect," he says.

His subjects gaze with unwavering firmness and a stern disposition, provoking viewers' curiosity about what has captured their attention while enabling varied interpretations that resonate with individual life journeys. His work has evolved from large-scale neo-expressionistic paintings into a process of experimental appropriation.

Kwabena Fordjour, born in Accra, Ghana, is a talented artist currently residing in La, in the Greater Accra Region. He began his formal art education by earning a Higher National Diploma in Commercial Art from Takoradi Technical University in 2011. He furthered his studies with a Bachelor of Art Education from the University of Education, Winneba, graduating in 2015.

His work explores the nuances of the Ghanaian transportation scene, focusing on how it influences shared public spaces, the use of time, social behaviours, and economic conditions. By depicting transportation queue systems, monologues, dialogues, and human interactions within vehicles, he narrates the everyday stories of ordinary Ghanaians. His inspiration stems from his personal commuting experiences, the motion of vehicles, and the attitudes of people in transit. Employing a vibrant acrylic colour dab and patch technique, his works are inspired by masters like Vincent Van Gogh, Claude Monet, and the Ghanaian artist Nii T. Mills.

Working from his home studio in La, Accra, Kwabena also manages an art and skill learning studio open to the public, nurturing the creative abilities of children and adults. Additionally, he teaches art and illustration part-time at Child Bilingual Institute and Gensheila Fashion Academy in Accra. His recent exhibitions include "Gentle Seed" and "Virtual Realities – Urban Navigations," held in Austin and Accra in April and May 2024, respectively. Other notable participations include The Creative Arts Show, the Black Art Street Festival, and a charitable auction for Little Big Souls at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel.

Meshach Charity is a talented visual artist from Estako East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. Born and raised in Lagos, where his artistic journey began, he has since moved to Ibadan, Oyo State, where he continues to develop his craft. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Fine and Industrial Arts from the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, solidifying his foundation in the art world.

His primary medium of expression is oil on canvas, and his works are profoundly influenced by his daily experiences and the environment he grew up in. Drawing inspiration from the vibrant life around him, Meshach skillfully uses colour and creativity to structure, capture, and portray the dynamic events of everyday life. His deep passion for art enables him to transform ordinary occurrences into compelling visual narratives, reflecting his unique perspective and artistic vision.

Jason Langa was born and currently resides in Johannesburg, South Africa. He primarily works with oil paint, often combining it with acrylics, and also explores various printmaking techniques. His immediate community serves as the main source of inspiration for his subjects.

His art portrays the daily lives of people in his community and surrounding areas. He finds inspiration in capturing moments of ease and enjoyment among his subjects. His use of colour to represent skin tones extends the emotional appeal of his work, as he believes each person reacts uniquely to different colours. This approach allows him to connect with viewers on an emotional level. Jason intuitively tells stories about how he views the people in his community, paying homage to their existence. He plans to explore encounters with people of all genders and sexual orientations in his future works. Beyond capturing reference images, Jason takes pleasure in faithfully recreating them, constructing a world filled with characters he finds fascinating and unique, thereby illustrating and sharing their stories.