By Osa Mbonu-Amadi

Simply titled Kola Dairo “Rothko”, the solo art exhibition of the artist named in the title opens on October 14, 2023 at Signature Beyond Art Gallery, Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The exhibiting artist, Kola Dairo, says it has been a great honour for him to have created such diverse body of work, despite the myriad of challenges he encountered. He notes that art, for him, is an endless voyage of discovery, and being artist, a privilege for him: “I am profoundly grateful for the privilege to explore and create. Reflecting on my humble beginnings as an artist, I recall the countless lessons learned and the continuous growth that has enriched my artistic passion over time.”

In a foreword to “Kola Dairo ‘Rothko’, provided by Signature Beyond Gallery, the artist is described as someone who “emerged as a luminary” in the world of contemporary African art. Dairo’s work, according to the foreword, is the essence of his African heritage while resonating with the abstract expressionism of Mark Rothko. The exhibition is a testament to the enduring power of art to create connections that defy geography and culture.

Described as more than just a collection of canvases adorned with vibrant hues and intricate forms, Kola Dairo Rothko is a celebration of artistic influence. The exhibition is a dialogue between two artists, one contemporary African and the other an iconic American abstract expressionist, who, despite the boundaries of time and place, share a profound connection through their work.

“Kola’s artistry, marked by the interplay of colors and abstract forms, takes us on a visual journey where emotion and perception merge. His ability to create a language of colors that speaks to the soul is nothing short of remarkable. Each piece in this exhibition invites us to explore the depths of our own feelings and experiences, transcending the confines of language,” part of the foreword reads.

Kolawole Dairo (b.1996) is a self-taught and innovative artist from Osun State, Nigeria, but born and raised in Lagos. His deep passion for art led him to seek mentorship under his uncle, Mr. Olamilekan Dairo, and subsequently pursue formal education in visual art at Yaba College of Technology, Lagos, Nigeria.

Dairo is a versatile artist, known for his multidisciplinary approach, where he utilizes a diverse range of materials to give life to his creative visions. Kolawole Dairo is the grandson of the late Nigerian juju musician, Pa I.K. Dairo (MBE).

His profound appreciation for colors has led him to delve into color field abstract expressionism, employing a pointillism technique. This artistic approach infuses his works with a sense of movement as he skillfully lays various hues upon one another to convey the essence of simplicity and vibrancy in his forms.

In his art, Dairo addresses a wide spectrum of subjects, including social issues, family dynamics, political matters, emotional experiences, fashion and culture, among others. His canvases serve as platforms for exploring the multifaceted tapestry of human existence and the world around us.

As an emerging artist, Dairo delves into the realm of artistic expression using an array of diverse mediums, including acrylics, oil paints, textiles, newsprints, beads and more. His journey as a professional artist began several years ago, marked by a steadfast commitment to infuse his artworks with his utmost dedication, undeterred by the challenges encountered during the creative process.

Dairo, a young and promising, has dedicated himself as a full-time studio artist, diligently cultivating his unique artistic identity. He is best known for his dynamic rendition of color tones, achieved through his distinctive pointillism style of work. His exceptional talent has earned him recognition with many of his works being featured in group exhibitions and finding a place of honor in the collections of prestigious galleries both in Nigeria and abroad.