Curator of ‘In With The Old: Repurposed’, Aida Oluwagbemiga, a solo exhibition by artist, Idris Abdulwahad, has said the body of work holds an important space in the current genre of sustainable art practice.
A Senior Communications Executive, writer and policy researcher, with a degree in history and diplomacy, Oluwagbemiga believes the exhibition comprised of several old materials, pictures, newspaper, naira notes, and paint recycled into eight sustainable works of art, successfully got its audience pondering on their personal and collective history.
“I have always been passionate about how people interact with history and have over the years tried to use storytelling methods such as curating to get people interested in history.
“Abdulwahab was able to create something quite important from decaying pictures, old notes, newspaper clipping, paints and more. As a curator, I was transfixed by this ode to the past and I would like to see more creatives make history relevant through such interesting means.”
Speaking on the exhibition process, Co-curator and Project Manager at Genzify Africa, Mathias Ojo, who admitted it was his first dabble into art exhibition, said he initially nervous at taking on such a project. It was equal parts a learning and surreal experience for him.
Working closely with the lead curator, Ojo participated in the entire process of exhibition, from selecting the art pieces for display, to the planning, installation and research that shaped their intended narrative.
“Seeing the final outcome, and its reception was incredibly rewarding. The turnout was beyond what I expected and I am genuinely proud of how it all came together. This experience definitely sparked a stronger passion for curatorial work in me, and I’m excited to keep exploring this path.”
Visitor at the exhibition, Zara Medugu hinted at the intentionality of the exhibition. Medugu who is also an artist and an educator, noted that while she has no knowledge of Arabic language, it didn’t prevent her absorption in the artworks.
“I was able to ascribe meaning and ponder – who are these people with covered faces? Where are these documents leading us to? What is the story? What is the actual tale woven through these art pieces? Overall, I enjoyed myself,’ she said.
We’ve got the edge. Get real-time reports, breaking scoops, and exclusive angles delivered straight to your phone. Don’t settle for stale news. Join LEADERSHIP NEWS on WhatsApp for 24/7 updates →
