Abiodun Olaku, (b. Nigeria, 1958) Signed (on face of work) Oil on canvas 96.5 x 112cm (38 x 44.1in)

Abiodun Olaku, (b. Nigeria, 1958) Signed (on face of work) Oil on canvas 96.5 x 112cm (38 x 44.1in)

Framed

Abiodun Olaku was born in Nigeria in 1958. He studied painting at Yaba College of technology in Lagos under the tutelage of Professor Yusuf Grillo, Kolade Oshinowo and the late Dr Isiaka Osunde.

Olaku`s original and continuing inspiration as a painter is drawn from the notion of art transcending time and outliving its creator. Inherent in his work there is a compelling dichotomy between the precision with which the artist frames his compositions and responds to his subject matter – and the subject matter itself - the minutiae of nature`s atmospherics and the complex narratives of human activity. Olaku`s works are visual tributes to Nigerian life as it is evolving; contemporary culture observed and recreated for posterity, with a sense of exactitude and discipline. Whilst his work is not overtly political, his attention to detail and respect for his subject matter is in itself a political statement.

In Life Goes On (Lagos) Olaku creates an imaginary street from elements drawn from his perpetual study of his own city. Life goes on here in the early hours of the morning where traffic is reduced to a small but steady flow. The artist evokes an anonymous narrative of unrecorded lives, paying homage to the gritty energy of Lagos, one of the great African metropolises, and the work ethic and resilience of its people. We see the artist`s continuing fascination with atmosphere, reflection and refracted light and for making transient moments permanent.

Abiodun Olaku`s work has been exhibited widely in Nigeria. Click here to view Catalogue