‘Modern Matriarchs: Charting New Frontiers in Art’, an all-female exhibition, is still on at Windsor Gallery, Victoria Island, Lagos until the 9th of March 2024. The inspiring exhibition, which features eight female artists from four African countries, pays homage to the great spirit of women who have left an undeniable mark on the canvas of visual art. Curated by Richard Vedelago and Seun Alli, the exhibition explores the profound contributions made by female artists who have not only embraced but redefined the landscape of new artistic forms. Merging contemporary artists of international repute whose aesthetic practices have bold expressions and innovative techniques, the exhibition includes paintings and works on paper by Chuma Adam (South Africa), Samuella Graham (Ghana), Chinaza Nkemka (Nigeria), Osaru Obaseki (Nigeria), Gbonjubola Obatuyi (Nigeria), Chigozie Obi (Nigeria), Simhle Plaatjies (South Africa), and Kristine Tsala (Cameroon).
Image courtesy of Windsor Gallery
According to Yoko Ngube, manager at Windsor Gallery Lagos, this exhibition is a reflection of the pan-African view of the gallery and the need to impact the continent-wide art industry. “Modern Matriarchs” invites contemplation on the role of women not only as creators of art but as architects of new possibilities within the art world. Each artwork becomes a brushstroke in a larger narrative, echoing the voices of those who have dared to challenge, reimagine, and define modern values on their terms. In “Charting New Frontiers in Art” the sub-theme of the exhibition, the gallery aims to showcase the ways in which these artists have expanded the boundaries of creative expression. The artists use diverse mediums, techniques, and subjects to venture into unexplored territories therefore leaving an enduring impact on the trajectory of contemporary art.
The term “matriarch” conjures images of strength, wisdom, and leadership within familial contexts. Throughout the exhibition, works by Chinaza Nkemka stress the awareness a contemporary woman achieves through subjective reflection of her body and life experiences. Osaru Obaseki merges abstraction and figuration with a synergy of materials as a way of also binding ancient and modern civilisations.
Image courtesy of Windsor Gallery
Chuma Adam’s deft use of abstract forms challenges themes of visibility or lack thereof, as she attempts to narrate the intangible complexities of navigating one’s path. Simhle Plaatjies’ large scale paintings are a source of inspiration – often stenciling elements of nature onto the work in combination with features comparable with those of a bull. Overall, her works are an invitation for people to connect with their own inner divinity. Kristine Tsala’s new visual character, “the giraffe woman” is colourful, elegant and bold yet unassuming. She takes charge of her socio-political struggles; acts as a sentinel for others and primarily serves as an artistic identity for the artist. Kristine’s practice highlights themes of difference and self-acceptance but most of all celebrates the individual woman.
In view of the above, Windsor Gallery Lagos invites art lovers and the general public to join the gallery to pay tribute to these visionaries, acknowledging their pivotal roles in shaping the visual art discourse and inspiring generations to come. The gallery described the exhibition as “a celebration of the resilience of women who continue to shape and influence the artistic landscape, inviting us all to rethink our perceptions and appreciate the rich tapestry they have woven”.
Image courtesy of Windsor gallery
