Affinity, artworks by Uwatse and Adewuyi, opens in Lagos March 24

Both artistes were inspired by aspects of Igbo culture.

Affinity, an exhibition of sculptures by Kehinde Adewuyi and water colours by Chinwe Uwatse, will open at Temple Muse, Lagos, on March 24.

The exhibition, a collection of 16 sculptures and 24 water colours, is presented by two artists who have a deep commitment to drawing attention to the struggles and questions of human existence through art, according to the organizers.

Sandra Mbanefo-Obiago, the exhibition’s curator, said that Uwatse’s intricate small works and Adewuyi’s bold and massive sculptures equally express a deep affinity to the world’s suffering masses.

“Their works complement each other, and show a unique African world view that is both traditional and also very contemporary, realistic and also hopeful,” Mrs. Mbanefo-Obiago said.

Uwatse, a globally recognised artist with a second studio in Cannes, France, creates small delicate water colours and ink drawings which have a light, almost translucent quality, rich in symbol and layered in soft hues and meaning.

“Art is my life. These things are hard-wired in our genes without us realizing it,” said Uwatse, 54, who, as a child, became fascinated by the intricate uli (traditional designs drawn by the Igbo people) tattoos on women and symbols on traditional architecture.

Uwatse, best known for focusing on the female ethos, will showcase works such as ‘Still Waters’, an art inspired by the sunrises and sunsets in the South of France; Centre of the Universe; Giver of Life; Lady of Leisure, among others.

For Adewuyi, a graduate of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; art is an avenue for self-expression.

Using the lost wax technique, which dates as far back as the 9th century Igbo Ukwu tradition, Adewuyi creates unique bronze sculptures which portray universal themes such as struggle, affection, and poverty.

“I employ methods of exaggeration and elongation of the human figure to best portray and express my inner feelings about the subjects that I often see in my environment,” said Adewuyi, 55.

“The human existence if full of ups and downs but man must take courage and not lose hope despite the challenges of life,” he added.

Some of Adewuyi’s works to be showcased at the exhibition include Patiently Waiting; Destitute; Struggle; Affectionate Mother; When You Are Down; Mixed Feelings, among others.

Though both artistes have not had a solo exhibition in Nigeria for many years, their works have been featured at the Terra Kulture and Arthouse Contemporary auctions in Lagos as well as the Bonhams ‘Africa Now’ auctions in the UK.

Affinity, supported by Veuve Clicquot, is Temple Muse’s first exhibition in 2014 and would run until April 30th.

Last year, the design and luxury platform presented such important Nigerian artists like Bruce Onabrakpeya, Victor Ehikhamenor, and Chidi Kwubiri.

“We are delighted that Adewuyi and Uwatse’s amazing works are kicking off our artistic season this year,” said Avi Wadhwani, Artistic Director at Temple Muse.