‘Kpali,’ a movie on plight of a Nigerian immigrant, set to hit cinemas
a monkey. What inspired that?
I have done four Mona Lisas in that manner. The first one was used as the poster advert for Signature Gallery’s annual auction. However, I keep doing them because it’s been a hit with people. My clients keep demanding for it. So, the Monkey Monalisas’ are commissioned pieces.
What themes do you seek to explore?
Most of my paintings are centred around politics, love, and socio-cultural issues. For example, my painting ‘Buddies’ is based on a social theme. The cordial relationship between the chimp and his pet. It relates to the beautiful relationships we all share with our pets.
You recently held an exhibition at Freedom Park, Lagos. Can you tell us about it?
It was a group exhibition called ‘Ayama’ derived from the Delta language meaning ‘community of people.’ I showcased three artworks and it was a success because the turnout was huge. I sold all my works that day. It was my fifth major group exhibition.
What determines how you price your work?
It depends on how much I like it.
What is the most challenging piece you have worked on so far?
I don’t usually have challenges in making art that comes from inspiration. I only have challenges with commissioned works, especially with some interesting clients.
What do you think could strengthen the art community?
We need to collaborate more with other artistic bodies like those in the music and drama industry, as well as other corporations. We need more partnerships and collaborations. I feel we are too independent. We do things on our own. With collaborations and partnerships, we can do more big things. What we have currently are artists and galleries working independently. We can dream bigger. Who says we can’t own our own television media house? Those are the thoughts that course through my mind and what I dream for the visual arts community in the near future.
Who is your role model?
Interestingly, the person I admire is not an artist. Mr Rhaman Akar owns and manages Signature gallery in Ikoyi. He inspires me.
Who are influencers?
your biggest
I have a myriad of them. From my boyhood a friend called Ndubuisi Chukwu encouraged me to pursue art. He was studying art at Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education and graduated as the best student in his set. Interestingly, when I was admitted into the same school, I also graduated as the best student in my set. Besides him, my dad also played a vital role in the sense that he sponsored my education. Then Mr. Rhaman Akar played a big role in my art. I did my Industrial Training at his gallery and we spoke a lot about art and the business angle.
What’s your favourite part of being an artist?
It’s really satisfying when clients call and tell me how satisfied they are with my work. Also, I derive pleasure from inspiring younger students at seminars I am invited to.
I use it to set myself apart and it has become a big selling point for me. My clients love the fact that my work is different.
What is the best advice you have ever gotten?
It’s “consistency is the secret of the game.” That is the advice I also give any budding artist.