Saturday, July 6, 2024

Legacy of Light: Honouring Zinno Akpoghene Orara

Artist Zinno Orara Passes ON @ Age 58

Born in Benin City in 1965, Zinno Akpoghene Orara embarked on a creative journey that resonated far beyond his beginnings. Educated at Government College, Ughelli, and later at the Auchi Polytechnic School of Art and Design, he honed his craft with a focus on painting and illustration, graduating at the top of his class at the age of 23 in 1988.

Orara's artistic prowess quickly found recognition, marked by his inaugural exhibition at Lagos State's Didi Museum in 1991. From this milestone, he embarked on a global journey, captivating audiences with numerous exhibitions hosted in galleries and museums worldwide, culminating in his recent joint exhibition with classmate and friend Gab Awusa  titled 'Refreshing Dialogue' held in Lagos just last month. A show curated by Moses Ohiomokhare

Regarded as one of his generation's most influential artists, Orara transcended mere creativity to become a beacon of guidance and inspiration for countless young artists worldwide. His legacy as a teacher, leader, and visionary continues to illuminate the path for future generations of artists, ensuring that his impact endures far beyond his canvas.
 
Mudiare Onobrakpeya
writes from Lagos
6th july 2024

 

Simidele Adesanya : A Magnificent Obsession from Law Practice to Art and Gallery Curating

Simidele Adesanya, a second-generation Lagosian, embarked on an unconventional journey in the art world. Despite her educated background as a lawyer, she followed her passion for art, becoming a prominent arts promoter in Lagos. Her talent for networking and hosting intimate art gatherings in her home helped her build connections and attract art enthusiasts.

 

In 1992, she officially registered her gallery, facing financial challenges but maintaining unwavering commitment. Simidele's gallery stood out for its mission to elevate artists and the art profession, treating artworks as valuable assets. Her dedication bridged the gap between the artistic community and the wider public, leaving a significant mark on Lagos' art scene and the profession itself. In those early years her currency of trade was high ethical behaviour and conduct, with transparency and integrity as cannons. This professional behaviour brought a lot of respect not only to artists by the society at large, and gave a sense to many artists that one could survive from the toil of creating good works of art.

 

In the 2nd decade she collaborated and partnered with many persons and institutions, like Bisi Silva, where training seminars and education series across the country where developed. Also were auctions with Terra Kulture. Other shows like watercolour and pastel Exhibitions were developed and perfected. These were exploratory years that were ruled by a lot of passion and better business planning than the proceeding decade.

 

In the third decade of Sinmidele Adesanya's gallery journey, a period of consolidation took shape. With a stable source of income firmly established, Sinmidele began to channel resources into projects that aligned with her gallery's artistic interests and ambitions.

 

One notable outing was the gallery's participation in Art Dubai in 2016. Art Dubai provided a global stage where artists and their works could be showcased, reaching a diverse and international audience. Another significant milestone was the Masters show, a prestigious event that attracted distinguished dignitaries, including the former Vice President of Nigeria. These 2 events underscored the growing influence and impact of Simidele's gallery on the national and international art scene. While the cash flow generated at such international events might not have been the most favourable, the exposure and publicity and lessons gained were immeasurable

 

Looking ahead, Sinmidele believed that the art industry could progress by fostering greater cooperation and reducing personal agendas. Collaboration among artists, galleries, and institutions could lead to more meaningful and impactful artistic endeavours. She envisioned a future where well-thought-out ideas could be supported through sponsorship, allowing for the creation of even more remarkable events and exhibitions.

 

Sinmidele's "My Drim Gallery" proudly stood as a testament to her dedication and perseverance. Over three decades, the gallery had hosted over 200 exhibitions and provided crucial support to over 300 artists. It had become a hub of artistic innovation, a platform for artistic expression, and a driving force in propelling the Lagos art scene onto the global stage.

 

Simidele Adesanya's journey was a testament to the transformative power of passion, determination, and a commitment to promoting the arts. Her gallery had not only contributed significantly to the cultural landscape of Lagos but had also set a shining example for the entire art industry, showing what could be achieved through cooperation, vision, and unwavering dedication to the world of art.

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Tribute to Fasuyi

CHIEF Timothy Adebanjo Fasuyi, a founding father of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), was a visionary. His role in nurturing the SNA was pivotal, fostering a community where artists could collaborate and flourish. His leadership was not just administrative; it was inspirational, empowering artists to explore and express, shaping a vibrant artistic culture in Nigeria.

During the Nigerian Civil War, Fasuyi’s role was profound. He was among the select artists whose works toured globally, not merely as exhibitions but as emissaries of Nigerian creativity and resilience. These exhibitions served as powerful counter-narratives to the prevailing stories of conflict, showcasing our rich cultural heritage and artistic prowess.

As an art adviser to the Nigerian Government, Fasuyi wielded his expertise to shape national art policies and programmes, championing art education and cultural development. His tenure marked a significant elevation of art in our national consciousness.

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Late Pa Timothy Adebanjo Fasuyi

Fasuyi’s artistic brilliance was most vivid in his mixed media works. He captured the essence of Nigerian life with a blend of surrealism and symbolism, integrating various mediums and styles seamlessly. His works were not just visually arresting; they were narratively compelling, deeply connected to our culture and traditions.

Chief Fasuyi’s legacy continues to illuminate the art world. His unwavering commitment to nurturing emerging talents and elevating Nigerian art, both locally and globally has left a profound impact. Through initiatives like the Fasuyi Prize at Ahmadu Bello University and the establishment of The Tim and Carol Art Gallery by his son, his lifelong dedication to art endures, serving as an enduring symbol of his passion and influence in the artistic community.

Through his works, leadership in the SNA, international exhibitions, and advisory roles, Fasuyi’s influence remains a cornerstone in the narrative of Nigerian art. He inspired a future where creativity, community, and cultural pride are celebrated, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire and guide future generations.

In tribute to Chief Timothy Adebanjo Fasuyi, I salute a life richly lived in the service of art, education, and culture. His journey was a testament to the transformative power of art in shaping society and legacy. His spirit lives on in every brushstroke, in every young artist he inspired, and in every corner of the Nigerian art world he helped shape.

* Onobrakpeya, a Nigeria National Order of Merit (NNOM), and UNESCO Human Living Treasure, wrote in this glowing tribute for the recently deceased Fasuyi from Lagos


 

Tribute to Tam Fiofori: Keen Chronicler of Nigerian Culture

Tam FioforI

Tam Fiofori, was a visionary filmmaker, photographer, and writer, whose indelible mark enriched Nigeria's artistic realm profoundly.

Tam Fiofori's creative brilliance shone brightly across our cultural landscape, yet our society's nurturing of his genius fell short. In comparison to his equally talented peers in more supportive settings, Tam's full potential may not have been fully realized.

To honour his legacy and support future luminaries, our society must establish genius grants and specialized funds. These initiatives empower gifted individuals to create impactful contributions, fostering a nurturing environment where their creativity can flourish. Such support not only enhances their productivity but also enriches our collective cultural fabric.


Nigeria remains a reservoir of exceptional talents like Tam, yet many struggle to realize their full potential due to inadequate support structures. Despite their occasional reclusiveness or rebellious nature, these geniuses deserve our steadfast protection.

Remembering kindred spirits like Ayodele Awojobi, Ola Balogun, Tijanni Mayakiri, Jimi Solanke and Oyiza Adaba underscores the importance of organizations like CORA, dedicated to celebrating our true talents.

Tam's absence leaves a void among close friends and fellow participants at the Harmattan workshop, organized by the Bruce Onobrakpeya Foundation, where his presence was deeply felt and cherished. His legacy as a confidant, friend, and artistic luminary who was a keen Chronicler of Nigerian culture, will endure, inspiring generations to come.


Bruce Onobrakpeya 
Lagos
UNESCO  Human Livng Treasure, Founder and Foundational Member of the Annual Harmattan Workshop
3rd July 2024.

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