Press Release
JUDAH JIBRIN: Riches of The Land
In the course of his artistic journey and experiences, Jibrin has become a believer in the bountiful beauty that can come off unity in diversity and this is what he is presenting us within this solo exhibition. A people with diverse culture are indeed rich. And this is despite the daunting challenges our country Nigeria is faced with. Jibrin believes that it does not reduce the truism that unity is a great wealth that can be capitalized and used as soft power. Our Unity and diversity is a part of the riches of our land. A number of the works in this exhibition capture elements of our unity and diversity under the theme of Durbar, a colourful northern royal event that celebrates the majesty and power of the Emir(King). As a University student, Judah had attended a number of these events, which he said, inspired him greatly as to make paintings of them.
The colour and splendour of the events were captivating to him and he has often portrayed their visions which are to him not only an instrument that unifies the kingdom but one that has always been a huge tourist attraction that draws people from different parts of the country and beyond. The Durbar festival is an annual religious and equestrian celebration in several northern cities of Nigeria including Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zazzau,
Bauchi and Bida. The festival marks the end of Ramadan and also coincides with the
Muslim festivities of Eid al Adha and Eid al-Fitri. It begins with prayers, followed by a
colourful parade of the Emir and his entourage on horses, accompanied by musicians and ending at the Emir’s palace. In Northern Nigeria, the practice dates back over 200 years.
Curated by Adeolu Tahouf