Bolaji Ogunwo
Bolaji was trained in the University of Benin; he was one of the pioneering set of the Postgraduate programme in the Department of Creative arts, University of Lagos, Akoka in 2006. His works can be found in notable places around the globe.
A Prolific portraitist, Bolaji has participated in 42 local and international art shows and two solo exhibitions in Nigeria and recently had another international Solo exhibition in Manchester, UK to his credit.
He is a staunch member of the society of Nigerian artists, Lagos Chapter; he is currently a Ph.D. research scholar in Delta state University Abraka, Delta state. He is also painting Lecturer in the Department of Creative arts, University of Lagos, Nigeria.
Artist’s Statement
My art is informed by the people and events that permeate my immediate and cyberspace. In the course of my artistic career spanning about two decades, I have resolved not to be led primarily by the trending thematic and stylistic cultures in the visual arts practice, but to see and represent ideas the way I feel and not just the way they are, hence my art is cathartic; a frenzied purgation of my emotions on canvases.
Beyond aesthetics, I ventilate loudly via a rich texture through my palette aimed at documenting the socio-political, cultural and economic subjects for posterity.
Title: Eurythmics
Medium: Oil on Canvas
Size: 75 x 165 cm (30 x 65 inches)
Year: 2017
Dance performance transcends its artistic form of nonverbal communication of the body. Its movement is clearly defined by the rhythm of music and it serves as a form of expression or social interaction.
In Africa where dances express the livelihood of our cultures, like hunting, fishing and cooking; it is also a codified transmission of traditional values of ethics, code of conduct through songs and gestures of the hips, shoulders, legs, hands and head. They teach social patterns and values; they are also sometimes used to praise or criticize members of the community, while celebrating festivals and other remarkable events.
“Eurythmics” underscores the dynamic body movements and the rich paraphernalia typical of the “Omoko” cultural dance of the Itsekiri in the southern part of Delta state, Nigeria. It is one of those African dances that are performed with specific purpose and it has since been an integral part of the Itsekiri culture. A seemingly acrobatic dance; it is performed by men and women alike consisting mostly of the middle aged in praise of heroic leaders, it is often presented during notable events and festivities.
