By Chukwuma Ajakah

Art lovers in Apapa, Lagos have pleasant things coming their way this season as Q Gallery, a prestigious gallery for contemporary art located in Apapa, Lagos, assuages their thirst through a three-week exhibition, featuring the works of two quintessential artists, Dr. Adeola Balogun and Nurudeen Popoola. 

Balogun is a consummate artist and Chief Lecturer at the famous Yaba College of Technology while Nurudeen is a phenomenal artist, and Fine Arts graduate of the same institution, who specializes in painting. 

As the exhibition showcases the spectacular works of the duo, Q Gallery offers what promises to be a memorable cultural and artistic experience to visitors, arts enthusiasts, collectors, and artists in Apapa, and its environs, including areas such as FESTAC, Ajegunle, Surulere, Mainland, and Badagry.

In a press conference held recently at the magnificent Apapa office of Q Gallery, the Gallery Manager, Oke Gabriel, revealed that the exhibition titled “Off Confines” will open at 3: 00 p.m. on Sunday, March 24 and run through Saturday, April 13, 2024 with Senator Ede Dafinone as Chairman. 

While unveiling the firm’s plans for the auspicious event, Oke said: “Our gallery has the luxury of space, peace and serenity that go in the rhythm of the artworks, creating an atmosphere of relaxation, conversation, and networking. Our philosophy is rooted in a deep appreciation for the arts and unwavering commitment to fostering artistic expression.”  On what informed the choice of Apapa, she quipped: “We want the public to know that there is a great gallery in Apapa. Artists, collectors and schools around the axis should take advantage of our presence as we are keen on promoting arts and artists from our local environment to a wider audience.”

Revealing that Q Gallery is more than just a vibrant art space, Oke described it as a creative community that hosts a variety of events, talks, and workshops. “It is a dynamic environment where artists and art enthusiasts come together,” she said, adding that viewers would see works that spring from the depth of the artist’s soul to address topical societal issues, environmental influence, and the creative freedom of one’s inner impressions.

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The event curated by celebrated art consultant, Moses Ohiomokhare, will feature about 30 artworks that reflect multifarious socio-cultural, political, and economic realities from divergent perspectives. The ace curator enthused that, “Off Confines as a thematic idea shows the tension and communion between DR. Balogun and Nurudeen. Over the years, one has tried to keep a balance between the two artists and their oeuvres. This exhibition points out two important phases which present a significant polarity. We see Nurudeen, who represents the new age peaking, in strength because of the encouragement he is receiving from his great teacher, Adeola Balogun. The master comes with his iconic joker in the intensity of his work that makes him a master artist.”

Moses observed that “There is also the positive bond and mutual trust and respect that are needed for the artist to soar high. As a valued member of the arts community, Q Gallery is on a journey to showcase an eclectic collection, exploring the concept of openness and seeking new experience in our art world.” In addition to showcasing the beauty of arts, the exhibition will reflect the fascination of collaboration, and selfless mentorship as the duo reflects ideal mutual relationship.   

Adeola Balogun is a prolific contemporary multidimensional artist with a reputation for dexterity in manipulating materials for sculpture mediums and going beyond sculpture to create captivating artworks in other genres of visual arts. Despite his illustrious career in academics, Balogun’s passionate commitment to studio work has resulted in wowing innovations that distinguish him among his peers as an outstanding experimental artist.

The art connoisseur advocates welfare of artists and availability of materials for a robust art practice, saying, “What other countries enjoy, we lack here. All the artist needs is where to put his head and materials to work with,” he said, adding, “I practice what I teach. I like to explore materials-perishable and durable: wood, electronic panels, lithographic plate, horse shoes, circuit boards, old coins, and rubber tyres”

Nurudeen, a multiple-award-winning artist was the Overall Best Graduating Student in School of Art, Design and Printing, Yabatech (2016), Best Student in Painting Section (2014, 2915), and Best Painting/Mixed Media @ Life in My City Arts Festival, LIMCAF (2018).  The prodigious artist, inspired by Africa and its people has featured in exhibitions and arts competitions within and outside Nigeria, including: Lasgidi Arts and Cultural Festival (2012), Lagos Contemporary Art Exhibition (2019), United Nations Information Centre Art Exhibition (2017), World Aids Day Arts Competition (2015), Greenfuse Exhibition Graham Contemporary, Johannesburg, South Africa, and Dak’Art Biennale, Senegal (2022). Nurudeen’s work has also been collected locally and internationally.

Nurudeen appraises his work thus: “My practice centers around creating artworks that communicate the modernity of Africanism. I intend to stimulate the beholder’s reasoning of the possible reality of combining African culture with assimilated foreign traditions without losing touch of who we are.  I create a visualization of African youth, male and female, who while lusting after western characteristics still maintain the identity of their heritage. An attitude I hope new generation Africans can imbibe in their desire to live up to the fashion and expectations of today’s fanciful society.”

Balogun’s works for exhibition include: Myriads of Perspectives (mixed media, 57x 29×2), Rhythm of the Moment 11 (Steel, Saxophone, 26x20x12), and Landmines &Goldmines 1 (mixed media, 76cm x 57cm), Exploring symbolism, technology, and social media through works such as “Landmines and Goldmines”, he exposes the vicissitudes of technological advancement in today’s world. The artist reveals that both anti-social tendencies and positive ones are technology driven. Nurudeen’s works (acrylic on canvas) include: Awaiting My Ruby (48×48 inches), Royal Splendour (48×48 inches), Paws and Positivity (48X48 inches), Oremi atata (48 x 60 inches), Yeaning Reverie (48 X 60 inches), Majesties in Our World (48×60 inches), Serenity in Bloom (48x 48 inches) and A Bond Beyond Words (48x 48 inches).

Having participated in solo and group exhibitions locally and internationally, the artist is sure to wow viewers as in previous outings including his 13th solo exhibition, “Transmogrification” (2022), Current Rhythm, CAMAA (2019), Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, Tribute to Fela (2019), Galleri Astley, Uttersberg, and Galleri Pumphause, Trollhattan,  Sweden, Ajorin Dance Metaphor (2020), October Rain (2022), Ants and Giants (2011), Quintessence Gallery, Lagos, Infinite Patterns (2009), Nike Art, Lekki, Lagos, and Matter Redirected 1 (2013), Galleri Astley Uttersberg,  Sweden.

Balogun, a recipient of many awards was Best Student in Life-Drawing and Sculpture (1993/1994), Society of Nigerian Artists, SNA’s “Distinguished Master Artist” (2015) and Visual Experimentalist of the Decade (2011). The famed artist has a lot of commissioned works including: bronze statues of Michael Ibru (2017), the late Ayandburen of Ikorodun (2015), Obafemi Awolowo, Funso Williams bronze, and Symbol of Justice & Culture bronze statue.

The organizers assure viewers of a rewarding experience in contemporary art as they exhibit thought provoking collections that will resonate with all and sundry: “We expect a great turnout and a beautiful show where collectors, enthusiasts and artists will converge to see, admire, and discuss the arts, and take away the message they would learn.”