A great piece of art can sell for as much as 200 million dollars. However, artworks in Nigeria have been unable to achieve this financial milestone considering an array of reasons including the high cost of inflation, low appreciation of art among the audiences and a hard economic reality that has plagued the country for over a decade.
It is in light of this challenging economic landscape, that many artists have now turned to their canvases and pencils, capturing the complex realities and struggles faced by Nigerians today.
As part of this artistic movement, Alexis Galleries in partnership with The Macallan opened its doors on Saturday to showcase the talents of nine gifted artists, each offering their unique perspective through thought-provoking works.
Here are our top selections from the captivating artworks presented at the exhibition:
According to Jacqueline Suowari, her art piece, “Sunset in Banana Island” neatly nestled behind a bottle of The Macallan “explores contemporary African womanhood, masterfully intertwining elegance with the richness of cultural identity”.
She explored themes such as identity, modernism and nationalism, deeply rooted in shared human experiences, complex perspectives and diverse cultural influences.
Through Oscar Ukonu’s lens, the piece “Face Value,” probes how identity is both revealed and concealed within a society that is heavily influenced by media portrayals.
This artwork evoked a deep emotional response from the guests, drawing them into its narrative with every brushstroke. Its intricate details and thoughtful composition seemed to present an emotional story that resonated with each viewer.
David Otaru created nostalgic feelings with his artwork inviting guests into his own childhood experiences.
In a country where several challenges often overshadow artistic ambition, events like the Alexis Galleries art exhibition in partnership with The Macallan serve as a platform for Nigerian artists to showcase their works.
The exhibition not only provides a platform to showcase artistic creativity but also highlights the power of art as a mirror reflecting societal realities, offering a profound commentary on the struggles and triumphs of everyday Nigerians.
