The Vanguard Gallery makes its debut in London with a vibrant exhibition celebrating contemporary African voices. Titled In the Act of Becoming: An Ode to Self and Story the exhibition delves into the journey of self-discovery. Curated Modeleola Shodipothe exhibition highlights the ever-evolving sociopolitical landscape of the African continent. She juxtaposes historical perspectives with contemporary works by creating a multigenerational dialogue of reflection and imagination. This inaugural exhibition will mark the launch of The Vanguard platform dedicated to amplifying Black voices. The platform aims to shed light on the current and future geopolitical landscape of Africa.
Fabric and oil on canvas. 153 x 122 cm. Image courtesy of The Vanguard Gallery.
Modeleola Shodipo, the Nigerian and London-based curator behind the exhibition, is also a finance professional and the founder of The Vanguard Gallery. She established the gallery with a mission to bridge African history with future imaginative possibilities. By spotlighting Black artists examining contemporary Africa, The Vanguard Gallery transforms into a nomadic space. It converges the past, present, and future of the continent, embodying the themes celebrated in its opening exhibition.
“Our goal is to pierce the veil. We want to shine a light on overlooked complexities and do so on our terms,” Shodipo explains. “Through this exhibition, I hope to create a moment of reflection—an opportunity for audiences to feel a sense of peace and pride, both culturally and personally, in the richly colored journeys and identities that shape our stories.” Her vision underpins the gallery’s commitment to celebrating diverse narratives and fostering meaningful conversations about African identity and creativity.
The Act of Becoming: An Ode to Self and Story follows the life of former Nigerian President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo. It explores themes of education, culture, and the socio-geopolitical landscape, ultimately posing the evocative question: “But aren’t we magnificent?”. This extensive archival collection is divided into three distinct sections and is showcased alongside contemporary works by Ibrahim Bamidele (Nigerian, b. 1992) and Azeez Salami (Nigerian).
The first, The Man, examines his early life—his genealogy, education, and family—through displays of clothes, photographs, and personal collectibles. The second section, The Soldier, focuses on his illustrious military career, following his rise from a soldier in the Nigerian Army’s 5th Battalion to General Commander. Featuring photographic materials and sculptures, this section delves into his role in significant events such as the Congo Crisis (1960–1961) and the Nigerian Civil War.
The final section, The Politician, chronicles his time as Nigeria’s President and Commander-in-Chief. It includes records and photographs from key government institutions. They include the National Assembly, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigerian Police, and paramilitary bodies, spanning from the Nigerian Civil War in 1967 to the conclusion of his presidency in 2007.
Ibrahim Bamidele is a Nigerian multimedia artist whose work spans photography and painting. He explores themes such as education, globalization, and religion. He incorporates various symbolic elements into his subjects, such as holding or reading a book, to signify their intellectual presence.
His use of halo-like imagery conveys grace, beauty, and an otherworldly aura. He positions his subjects in humble, vulnerable stances—such as sitting on a stool or lying on a bed—inviting audiences to connect with their humanity and appreciate their inherent dignity. This approach allows his subjects to inhabit a multicultural world and explore its vast possibilities. Bamidele’s works often feature Ankara fabrics, newsprint, and rich dark tones, offering a striking reflection of his cultural heritage.
Fabric and oil on canvas. 107 x 152 cm. Image courtesy of The Vanguard Gallery.
Similarly, Azeez Salami integrates chessboards and chess elements into his evocative paintings as metaphors for life. His subjects are often depicted suspended mid-air, their feet resting on chessboards, striving for chess pieces that remain just out of reach, or engaged in the game itself. Through his figurative and surrealist style, Salami explores themes of resilience and transformation. He invites audiences to reflect on their journeys and challenges.
Both featured artists have gained significant recognition over the years having participated in in major art fairs ;1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair Their works offer profound insights into identity, struggle, and possibility, making them powerful voices in the contemporary art world.
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Oil and acrylic on canvas
167 x 112 cm. Image courtesy of The Vanguard Gallery.
Through the lens of President Olusegun Obasanjo—a direct beneficiary of Nigeria’s educational and political systems —Modeleola Shodipo highlights the transformative power of education in shaping Africa’s dynamic sociopolitical and geopolitical landscape. By connecting Obasanjo’s roots in Abeokuta with his roles as a son, father, military leader, statesman, farmer, and writer, she weaves a multigenerational narrative that bridges the past, present, and future. This narrative underscores the enduring foundations that continue to shape Africa’s socio-political identity.
The exhibition will be open at The Vanguard Gallery from December 27th, with a private viewing hosted by former President Obasanjo and other distinguished guests.
Click here to learn more about the gallery and its latest collection.
