By Dishi Agaga-Akpati
A Nigerian artist, Saheed Adelakun, has unveiled an art exhibition titled Kókó Ewa, promoting self-love and encouraging Africans to embrace their natural skin.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the opening on Saturday in Lagos, Adelakun said Kókó Ewà was inspired by songs from Fela Anikulapo-Kuti and Shina Peters.
According to him, the works are meant to discourage skin bleaching and encourage Black people to appreciate their natural beauty.
The artist said though beauty was something people saw daily, his aim is to draw attention to the message behind it.
Speaking further about the exhibition, Adelakun said Kókó Ewà, which translates to ‘The Essence of Beauty”, was also inspired by his observations at the bustling Balogun Market, where many people constantly sought ways to improve their appearance.
According to him, beauty in Yoruba culture goes beyond physical appearance rather reflects character, identity and heritage, with the body of work exploring the strength and calmness of African women.
He noted that the exhibition presented a dual focus on the female body and facial portraits, highlighting natural skin, adornment, presence and emotional expression while reinforcing African identity.
“At our core, the beauty we seek is already within us,” he said.
Adelakun said the models used for the paintings were real people from different tribes, adding that each was painted based on their own understanding of beauty.
“The seer does not see themselves.
“The essence is to make people listen to what the artist is trying to pass across,” he said.
He added that while he had previously explored socio-economic and socio-political themes in his works, the current exhibition focused on socio-cultural issues.
The artist explained that his mixed media style, particularly the use of twine and paint on Masonite boards for his works were symbolic.
According to him, the use of twine was influenced by the meaning of his surname, which refers to one who unties knots.
NAN reports that the exhibition runs till April 18.
The event attracted art enthusiasts and notable personalities, including Ibukun Awosika, former Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria.
Some attendees who spoke with NAN, commended the creativity and message behind the works.
Markuochi Okafor, a media professional, described the artworks as detailed, noting the use of twine and bright colours.
Okafor said the pieces reflected the theme of the exhibition and were well executed.
Daniel Oruwhone, an artist, said the works were contemporary and captured everyday female figures.
He added that the exhibition presented a rare perspective of feminine beauty.
Another attendee, Nathaniel Bolarinwa, a painter and sculptor, described the experience as inspiring, especially the use of colours.
Similarly, Sofia Ahamiojie, a student of Olokun Studios, said the artworks were visually appealing.
Ahamiojie said the colours, beads and overall presentation stood out.
Also, Omolola Abiodun, a student, described the exhibition as attractive, and difficult for anyone not to appreciate the works.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng
Edited by Folasade Adeniran
