For lovers of arts and photography, the O’DA and SOTO art galleries are hosting art exhibitions starting on the 29th of October. The show by O’DA is themed ‘Ascendency of Machine’, exploring the evolution of human-machine interaction. While SOTO art gallery will journey into immersive photography encircling black culture in its exhibition themed ‘Reminiscence.’

The Ascendancy of Machine

O’DA Art Gallery was founded in 2020 with the dual goals of promoting established and mid-career contemporary artists from Africa and its diaspora. The O’DA gallery is dedicated to exhibiting artists who explore various topics, including identity, technology, political commentary, social consciousness, and environmental change. O’DA aims to produce timeless exhibits by integrating art and interior design to create an immersive atmosphere for the audience, with “beauty” at the core of every concept.

In pursuit of this vision, the O’DA Art Gallery presents an art exhibition entitled “The Ascendancy of Machine”. It is an exhibition bringing together the works of Kelani Abass (b.1979) and Olu Amoda (b.1959). This exhibition will run in Lagos from October 29th to November 19th, 2022.

“In today’s digital era, the world has evolved in its work modes, information dissemination, and social engagement. The influence of modern technology has paved the way for multi-functional practices that ultimately make life easier for the masses.

Although highly distinct in style and subject matter in this exhibition, both artists share a common focus on how the evolution of modern and contemporary practices affects their interpretation of socio-political and environmental discourses in today’s Africa.

The Work of Kelani Abass

Kelani Abass, in his work, revisits the evolution of the human-machine interaction and how it relates to Africa’s potential for industrialization and production. Olu Amoda’s sculptures, which he makes from recycled materials, combine historical and contemporary situations to assess cultural value and promote necessary structural improvements in Nigeria. Both artists ask for a change in ideals, emphasizing mainly the promotion of a more progressive and forward-thinking environment.

The Work of Olu Amoda

Olu Amoda (Nigeria, b. 1959) has devoted the last three decades to developing a distinct sculpture language in character and beauty. Amoda is a multidisciplinary artist who works as a sculptor, muralist, furniture designer, and multimedia artist. He is well recognized for using materials that have been recycled from consumer culture’s waste.

Rusted nails, metal plates, bolts, pipes, and rods welded together to form humans, animals, plants, and ambiguous forms are frequently used in his works. Amoda uses these resources to examine contemporary sociopolitical concerns in Nigerian society, including sex, politics, racism, conflict, consumerism, and economic inequality.

We invite you to experience both Amoda and Abass’ works as they embrace materiality and form to highlight and inform a new age of civilization.”

Exhibition Date: 29th October – 19th November  

For Inquiries, send an e-mail

The gallery opens between the hours of 11 am and 6 pm, Tuesdays to Saturdays. The gallery is located at 10 Sir Samuel Manuwa St, Victoria Island 106104, Lagos

 

Reminisce: A Photography Exhibition

SOTO Gallery is a modern art space promoting various African ideas via art. It was founded by Tola Akerele. The gallery is located at 10 Omo Osagie Street in Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria, in the city’s tranquil center. It offers a thoughtful approach to art and explores fresh approaches to fusing installation, design, and art. It is focused on the community and works to create an environment where everyone can access, appreciate, and interpret art in both simple and complex ways.

The art gallery aims to rediscover fresh approaches to engage artists in answers to age-old questions. It is a space that values both artists and the community. It reflects on concepts from a fresh perspective thanks to intensive exchanges and art education, creating a transforming encounter with African art in its various manifestations.

From iDesign Art to SOTO Gallery

SOTO Gallery started off with iDesign Art, which was founded in 2018. The idea behind iDesign Art, an accessible art fair, was to encourage young and burgeoning Nigerian artists to develop a culture of art appreciation. With over 200 artists featured, and nine successful editions over the years, we were able to identify and support promising emerging talent while influencing the economic and cultural aspects of modern Nigerian art.

Over the years, iDesign Art has maintained a culture of seeing and showcasing unrealized potential, evolving into a hub for extraordinary talent in the Nigerian art scene.

Along with the founder’s creative skills and extensive cultural background, SOTO Gallery will look at new and improved methods of fusing design, art, and installation.

In light of this, Soto is hosting a photography exhibition themed ‘Reminiscence’, featuring Jean David @blvckvrtist and Alain Ngann @alainngann 

“Reminisce hearkens us to a time of self-discovery, conflict, and royalty. Here, we explore photography as a means for documentation and recollection, empowerment, and therapy.

The Work of Alain Ngann and BLVCKVRTIST

The works of Alain Ngann and BLVCKVRTIST portray a great pride in black culture, where the artists channel their emotions and personal experiences through their works. They also find inspiration in long-forgotten and seemingly mundane black histories. BLVCKVRTIST’s approach is vivid and surreal compared to the more somber and naturalistic representation of Alain Ngann’s perspective. Both works are, in turn, striking and immersive. This stunning capsule collection allows us to remember, hope, and dream as we are immersed in photography’s beauty and power.

We invite you to come and enjoy this experience this Saturday, 29 October – Thursday, 3 November 2022.” 

The gallery opens between the hours of 10 am and 6 pm, Tuesdays to Saturdays. The gallery is located at 10, Omo Osagie Street, Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria.

If you are still deliberating attending these promising events, check out 6 reasons why you should visit an art gallery.