The Role of the Artist in Defining the Future through Storytelling
August 7, 2016
Lagos, Nigeria
Scroll to: see featured works and the artists; read about the event; and see media from the event
Featured Works
Artists
Abigail Nnaji,
Ronex Ahimbisibwe,
Suraj Adekola,
Tom Sunday.
About
The exhibition on the role of the artist was an ambitious exploration of the intricate relationship between the individual, their environment, and the broader community, with a particular focus on the role of art in advocating for sustainable social development. Through this exhibition, the gallery sought to illuminate how artists not only reflect their surroundings but also influence and shape the trajectory of societal growth and progress.
The exhibition brought together a diverse group of artists whose works spanned various media, including painting, sculpture, installation, and digital art. Each piece was a vivid embodiment of the artists’ unique perspectives on how the environment and community impact their creative processes and, conversely, how their art contributes to the development of these very spaces. The interplay between the individual and the collective was a recurring theme, with each work offering a distinct commentary on the ways in which personal identity and communal responsibilities intersect.
One of the key objectives of the exhibition was to challenge traditional notions of art as a mere reflection of reality. Instead, it positioned the artist as an active agent of change, whose work has the power to inspire, provoke, and drive social transformation. The exhibited pieces were not just artistic expressions but were also calls to action, urging viewers to reconsider their own roles within their communities and to think critically about the impact of their actions on the environment and society at large.
The artists employed a variety of techniques and materials to bring their ideals to life, creating a rich and multifaceted dialogue around the themes of sustainability and social responsibility. Paintings in the exhibition explored the tension between urbanization and nature, capturing the delicate balance that must be maintained to ensure the survival of both the environment and human communities.
Throughout the exhibition, the role of the artist was framed as one of both creator and advocate. The works on display demonstrated how art can serve as a powerful vehicle for social commentary and change, offering new ways of thinking about the relationship between individuals, their communities, and the environment. By engaging with these pieces, viewers were invited to consider their own responsibilities in fostering sustainable development, not just as passive observers but as active participants in the creation of a better future.
The Event
