By Prisca Sam-Duru

It is a busy period in the art sector as it enters its season in full, with more emerging artists showcasing rare talents in the industry.

One of the striking new voices, Adetola Odunlami, a self-taught artist, is set to launch his debut exhibition titled, ‘SOUGH’, offering a fresh perspective on contemporary Nigerian art.

The exhibition is scheduled for Monday, October 28 to November 4, 2024, at Esoteric Design in Victoria Island, Lagos.

 Odunlami’s unconventional journey to the world of fine art has been as eclectic as it is inspiring. Initially a fashion designer, Odunlami transitioned into construction, but his move into painting is now set to define his creative legacy.

“My path has been unconventional,” Odunlami said, reflecting on his career. “Fashion taught me form, construction gave me structure, and now painting allows me to explore the spaces in between.”

This exploration of spaces, both physical and metaphorical, is central to ‘SOUGH’.

 Through his use of acrylic on canvas, Odunlami investigates the silent yet powerful presence of vacant buildings, transforming them into narratives rich with memory, time, and latent potential.

The exhibition delves into how silence, often perceived as a void, becomes a force that resonates through empty spaces.

Influenced by both Nigerian and international artists, including Duke Asidere, Abiodun Olaku,and George Condo, Odunlami’s work bridges cultural divides while paying homage to his artistic heritage. He credits his mother’s collection of antique Ivory art for nurturing his appreciation for the past, which he marries with his contemporary vision.

“In emptiness, I find fullness,” Odunlami explains. “Each vacant room, each silent corridor tells a story. Through SOUGH, I invite the viewer to listen to these unspoken narratives.”

This debut marks the arrival of a fresh and bold voice in Lagos’ dynamic art landscape. Odunlami’s unique ability to merge architectural precision with the fluidity of fashion design sets his work apart, creating a visual language all his own.

With his transformative take on silence and absence, Adetola Odunlami’s debut promises to be a pivotal moment in contemporary Nigerian art, not just for those familiar with his journey, but for art enthusiasts eager to experience a new, compelling narrative.