Red Heritage is delighted to present “The Indignant Eye”, the solo exhibition of Nigerian artist Samuel Ajobiewe, running from 18 to 24 March at the National museum, Lagos. The exhibition brings together Ajobiewe’s recent works created between 2018 to 2022 that addresses the issues which have eaten into the fabric of Nigeria, most especially the perceived injustices and the flawed socio-political structures. With a career spanning over three decades, Ajobiewe has developed a distinct visual language characterized by an earthy color palette and a delicate fascination with the contrast of light and shadows, as seen in the rendering of his subjects. In a revolutionary manner, Ajobiewe also explores the use of metaphorical images to represent real life events and veiled reflections with archetypal meanings through esoteric connections.
According to Ajobiewe, the exhibition serves as a response to “the many disturbing situations in the country. A number of them are, our migrating masses who have left home for safer pastures, deliberate neglect of responsibilities and obligations by government officials without fear of consequences, and in recent years, the agitation for separation and division of the country from socio-political groups.”
Image courtesy of Red Heritage
“The Indignant Eye” provokes audiences to dream of a new Nigeria and consider the remedy of our sociopolitical issues. Grounded in the history of modern Nigeria, the exhibition presents a fertile ground to dismantle the rise of tyrants and promote sustainable growth in the nation.
About Samuel Ajobiewe
Born in 1969 in Nigeria, Samuel Ajobiewe is a renowned draughtsman working across diverse mediums including pastels, acrylic, watercolor, and bronze. He studied at the Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) and emerged as the Best Graduating National Diploma (ND) student, School of Arts, Design and Printing (SADP) in 2000 and the Best Graduating student, Higher National Diploma, (HND) in the same department in 2004. In 2009, Ajobiewe presented his debut solo exhibition at the Mydrim Gallery, Lagos. The output of the exhibition cemented his presence in the Nigerian cultural scene and showcased his artistic prowess. Through the years, Ajobiewe has garnered a reputation as a keen observer who captures universal human experiences and embraces art as a mirror of life. In his works, he offers a bold commentary on the social ills that plague Nigeria and engages with themes related to cultural identity and values.
Instagram: @atelierajobiewe
About Red Heritage
Red Heritage is a visual art organization designed to provide developmental support and advisory services to artists, cultural practitioners, and key players in the African art ecosystem at various stages of their careers. Spanning three decades, Red Heritage facilitates art intervention programs to contribute to the aspirations of creative individuals and initiatives through grants for production, ambitious exhibitions, art educational programs, research, and scholarships. Our vision is to sow seeds of sustainable growth and unleash the potential of artists guided by their most pressing needs and priorities.
Instagram: @redheritageart
The Indignant Eye
18 – 24 March; 10 AM – 5 PM daily
Opening Reception: 18 March; 2 PM – 6 PM
National Museum, Onikan, Lagos, Nigeria
For further information please contact: Tony Agbapuonwu | Project Manager, The Indignant Eye
Contact details: contacttonyola@gmail.com | +2349090417280
Red Heritage Limited
Office: 28 Raymond Njoku street, Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria
Contact details: ha@hydrocarbonadvisors.com | +234 803 404 7474
1 Comment
Samuel Ajobiewe is a household name in the Nigerian art scene. I remember his solo exhibition at Mydrim Gallery. Congratulations on the forthcoming solo! Definitely one to look out for.