UNDISCOVERED A GROUP ART EXHIBITION
UNDISCOVERED A GROUP ART EXHIBITION DAVIES BEN TOCHUKWU ORAZULIKE YAKNO JESSICAH NNOROM SAMUEL FAITH MICHAEL SATURDAY 17TH JUNE, 2023 THOUGHT PYRAMID ART CENTRE 96, NORMAN WILLIAMS STREET, OFF RIBADU, IKOYI, LAGOS.
UNDISCOVERED A GROUP ART EXHIBITION DAVIES BEN, TOCHUKWU ORAZULIKE, YAKNO JESSICAH, NNOROM SAMUEL, FAITH MICHAEL Curator: Ovie Omatsola THOUGHT PYRAMID ART CENTRE 96, Norman Williams Street, Keffi Awolowo, Off Ribadu, Ikoyi, Lagos State Nigeria. www.thoughtpyramidart.com +234 803 837 5674, +234 803 332 2885 Consultant: Tosin Jekami Graphics and Layout Design: Makinde Damilola No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or any means without prior written permission of the gallery Cover Image: Tochukwu Orazulike
Foreword Tochukwu Orazulike Acknowledgement 000 4 17Curator's Statement Nnorom Samuel 48 06 33 CONTENTS 05 25 41 49 09Gallery Statement Yakno Jessicah Faith Michael Gallery View Davies Ben
FOREWORD UNDISCOVERED; exploring uncharted artistic territories “Undiscovered\" emerged from a desire to break free This groundbreaking exhibition pushes the from the routine and venture into uncharted artistic boundaries of traditional art forms, presenting a territories. The culmination of this exploration brings bloggable experience that invites viewers to embark forth the talents of five marvelous exhibiting artists: on an exciting journey of discovery and exploration. Tochukwu Orazulike, Jessicah Yakno Ene, Davies Ben, Faith Michael, and Nnorom Samuel. In a departure from the usual selection process, we Adetiloye Oluwatosin Jekami turned to our Instagram followers to nominate the Exhibition Consultant artists who they believe will make waves in the art “UNDISCOVERED” world this year. With over a hundred talented individuals put forward, we carefully curated a group exhibition that features the exceptional artists chosen through this inclusive approach. Today, their captivating artworks take center stage, offering a glimpse into their quirky creative visions. With a spirit of experimentation and a quest for novelty, \"Undiscovered\" presents a collection that pushes boundaries, challenges perceptions, and invites viewers to embark on an exhilarating journey of artistic discovery. 04/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
GALLERY STATEMENT “UNDISCOVERED; an invitation to broaden your horizons'’ We are thrilled to present the group exhibition exhibiting their work publicly in Lagos for the first \"UNDISCOVERED,\" showcasing the remarkable time, while others may have had limited exposure to talents of five visual artists: Tochukwu Orazulike, the Lagos art scene until now. Jessicah Yakno Ene, Davies Ben, Faith Michael, and Nnorom Samuel. This carefully curated collection This exhibition celebrates the beauty of diversity, unveils a world of creativity, where each artist's sui inviting visitors to engage with the artists' unique generis outlook is expressed through their individual voices and perspectives. Each artwork tells a story, artworks. and as you immerse yourself in the world of \"UNDISCOVERED,\" we hope it sparks conversations, \"Undiscovered\" is a celebration of artistic musings evokes emotions, and inspires a deeper appreciation that have yet to receive widespread for the boundless creativity that exists within our acknowledgment. Each artist brings a distinct style artistic community. and perspective, offering a fresh and compelling approach to their respective mediums. This Join us as we uncover the hidden treasures of these exhibition is a testament to their individuality, talented artists and embark on a journey of discovery. creativity, and unwavering dedication to their craft. \"UNDISCOVERED\" invites you to broaden your horizons, embrace the unfamiliar, and celebrate the The participating artists represent a diverse range of power of art to transcend boundaries and ignite the backgrounds, cultures, and artistic styles. From imagination. indigenous acclaimed art talents to internationally celebrated future masters, each artist brings their Jeff Ajueshi own distinctive voice to the exhibition. Some may be Artistic Director Thought Pyramid Art Centre /05U N D I S C O V E R E D
CURATOR'S STATEMENT “UNDISCOVERED: a celebration of Fresh and compelling artistic voices” The \"Undiscovered\" exhibition goes beyond being a \"UNDISCOVERED\" invites viewers on a journey of mere showcase of up-and-coming artists. It is a scrutiny, unveiling hidden narratives, and skills that dynamic platform dedicated to allowing visual artists are out of sight. From Orazulike's evocative paintings to shine a light on their distinctive inspirations, that delve into the depths of emotion, to Ene's diverse frame of mind, and experimental techniques. intricate mixed media compositions that challenge This exhibition celebrates the artistic journey of these conventional boundaries, the exhibition is a rising stars, providing them with the opportunity to testament to the power of artistic expression. Ben's break free from the shadows and reveal their vibrant and dynamic characters ignite a sense of boundless potential to the world. questioning, while Faith's ethereal muted paintings encapsulate overwhelming moments of beauty, self- With this art event, we endeavor to recognize the analysis, and invites viewers to contemplate the endless possibilities that lie within the untapped transient nature of existence. Samuel's prominent realms of creativity. It serves as a reminder that the art and deeply thoughtful installations confront societal world is constantly evolving, and there is always room norms, stirring the beholders to inquire and reflect. for new voices to be heard. Curated with meticulous attention to detail, The thematic content of \"Undiscovered\" encourages \"Undiscovered\" brings together a vibrant collection research and determination. The artworks include of artworks from a variety of disciplines, including subjects such as personal narratives, social issues, painting, installation art, and mixed media. Each piece cultural heritage, environmental concerns, or abstract has been carefully selected to reflect the essence of concepts. The exhibition aims to challenge unexplored artistic expressions and push the preconceived notions and inspire viewers to embrace boundaries of artistic convention. the new and unknown. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the artworks 06/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
on a personal level, allowing the pieces to open up Ovie Omatsola their feelings, uplift their minds, and inspire Exhibition Director and Curator introspection. \"UNDISCOVERED\" \"Undiscovered\" is an invitation to witness the hidden gems within Africa's artistic landscape. It encourages you to engage with these talented artists, to delve into their unique visual languages, and to appreciate the depths of their newfangled creativity. As a gallery, we are honored to present these works, knowing that they possess the power to inspire, provoke, and connect. We believe that within this exhibition lies the potential for discovery—both for the artists themselves as they emerge onto a wider stage, and for you, the viewer, as you encounter their exceptional talents (probably for the first time). \"Undiscovered\" is an opportunity to embrace the beauty of the unknown, to celebrate the remarkable and often overlooked artists who enrich our cultural tapestry. /07U N D I S C O V E R E D
Art has become a loyal companion in times of distress and has given me the liberty to express my feelings, thoughts, imagination, and emotions on any surface. 08/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
DAVIES BEN /09U N D I S C O V E R E D
DAVIES BENARTIST PROFILE Davies Ben draws his inspiration from the African ways of life and environs from past to present. His paintings are semi-abstracted with light touches of mixed media, telling his stories of Africa through the paintings of African Fabrics, iconic vintage styles, and modern contemporary methodology in mainly figures and portraitures. He is a full-time studio artist, who hails from Bakana in Degema LGA in Rivers State. He's a graduate of the University of Port Harcourt where he studied Fine Arts and Design. Davies Ben's works have been shown in mainly group exhibitions in London, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan. 10/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
Memories We Share DAVIES BEN Acrylic with Newsprint 104.14x137.16cm /11U N D I S C O V E R E D 2023
DAVIES BEN Memories We Share II Acrylic with Newsprint 12/ U N D I S C O V E R E D 104.14x137.16cm 2023
DAVIES BEN Memories We Share III Acrylic with Newsprint 96.52 x 101.6cm 2022 /13U N D I S C O V E R E D
DAVIES BEN Memories We Share IV Acrylic with Newsprint 96.52 x 101.6cm 2022 14/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
Memories We Share V DAVIES BEN Acrylic with Newsprint 96.52 x 101.6cm /15U N D I S C O V E R E D 2022
In my work, I fuse Fauvism with realism to express beauty in different shades and how they affect our well-being. Fauvism allows me to express natural emotions, lifestyle, and my everyday experiences in brilliant colors without restrictions. 16/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
TOCHUKWU ORAZULIKE /17U N D I S C O V E R E D
ARTIST PROFILE TOCHUKWU ORAZULIKE Tochukwu Orazulike explores realistic and paints on canvas and is currently a full-time artist abstract paintings with contemporary elements residing in Lagos where he was featured in a to create figures that capture the sense of sight group exhibition “Impress Me” at Alexis Galleries and feelings, representing bliss and struggle, in Lagos. aestheticism, and to images that arouse emotions. He carefully dissects the importance of change by applying his real-life experiences. He is a Nigerian contemporary artist who attended the Institute of Management and Technology Enugu where he obtained a National diploma in fine and applied arts in 2016 and a Higher National Diploma in painting in the year 2019. He is proficient in using Oil, Acrylics, and spray 18/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
Reflection TOCHUKWU ORAZULIKE Oil & Acrylics on Canvas /19U N D I S C O V E R E D 60cm by 50cm 2022
TOCHUKWU ORAZULIKE Obim Oil & Acrylics on canvas 20/ U N D I S C O V E R E D 152cm by 213cm 2022
Beauty & Beyond TOCHUKWU ORAZULIKE Oil & Acrylics on Canvas /21U N D I S C O V E R E D 50cm by 40cm 2022
TOCHUKWU ORAZULIKE Bliss Oil & Acrylics on Canvas 22/ U N D I S C O V E R E D 80cm by 60cm 2023
Omalicha (Beauty) TOCHUKWU ORAZULIKE Oil & Acrylics on Canvas /23U N D I S C O V E R E D 122cm by 91cm 2022
“I have many aspirations but most importantly I hope to educate, heal and impact lives in a positively inspiring way through art and my career.” 24/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
YAKNO JESSICAH /25U N D I S C O V E R E D
ARTIST PROFILE YAKNO-ABASI JESSICAH Ene Yakno-Abasi Jessicah popularly called Yakno She merges elements of textile design and Paints is an abstract realism artist and a maven in painting to create black-and-white fabric textiles. She is the best-graduating student of the patterns on her subjects. Recently Jessicah Yakno Department of Fine Arts of the University of Uyo, has been working on the idea of sisterhood, where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Fine feminism, and violence against women from and Applied Arts, with a specialization in Textiles. personal experiences and that of other young women living in Nigeria. Yakno uses mixed media to add textures and depth to enhance the expressiveness and perception of her paintings for everyone. She derives inspiration from the formal elegance of the human body, which she applies elements like bright colors, gold paint, and paper, to create stylized, proportionally distorted figures that have aspects of 2D and also the fullness, proximity, gestures and values of a 3D image to portray the beauty and diversity of her people as an African woman. 26/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
YAKNO JESSICAH Time to Blossom II Acrylics & Gold Paint on Canvas 69 x 79cm 2023 /27U N D I S C O V E R E D
YAKNO JESSICAH Time to Blossom I Acrylics on Canvas 28/ U N D I S C O V E R E D 91 x 91cm 2023
Feeling butterflies YAKNO JESSICAH Mixed Media on Canvas /29U N D I S C O V E R E D 90 x 102cm 2023
YAKNO JESSICAH What is Feminism Acrylic on Canvas 30/ U N D I S C O V E R E D 107 x 122cm 2023
YAKNO JESSICAH Trapped in Oblivion Acrylics & Gold Paint on Canvas 84 x 84cm 2023 /31U N D I S C O V E R E D
Fabric suggests to me a social structure or social organization that weaves humanity into society. 32/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
NNOROM SAMUEL /33U N D I S C O V E R E D
ARTIST PROFILE SAMUEL NNOROM Samuel Nnorom belongs to the “New Nsukka 2023; The Guest Artist Space, Yinka Shonibare School of Art” and is the global prize winner of Foundation, Lagos Nigeria, 2023; The Art House, the M&C Saatchi and Saatchi Group Art for Wakefield United Kingdom. His residencies Change Award 2022. across significant parts of the world such as the BISO International Biennial of Sculpture of His body of work is typically constructed from Ouagadougou, Burkina-Faso, 2023; Gas Artist pieces of Ankara/African wax print fabric scraps Space (GAS) Yinka Shonibare Foundation collected from tailors, or cast-off clothes from Residency, Nigeria, 2022; Noldor fellowship and homes along with waste foam from furniture Residency, 2022/2023 et al have all empowered workshops that are wrapped and stitched into to become the most sought after in Nigeria, bubbles of various colors and sizes. Through Africa, and the world at large. actions like sewing, rolling, tying, stringing, and suspending- he navigates the boundaries Samuel hails from Abia, Nigeria, and holds an between textiles, painting, and sculpture in a MFA in sculpture from the University of Nigeria, poetic fashion. Nsukka. Samuel's pieces have been exhibited at Galerie Art Mur, Montreal Canada, 2023; Mitochondria Gallery, Houston Texas United States of America, 34/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
Mkpuru Ndu NNOROM SAMUEL African Wax Print Fabric 411 x 186 x 12cm /35U N D I S C O V E R E D
NNOROM SAMUEL Man's Portion African Wax Print Fabric 36/ U N D I S C O V E R E D 153 x 111 x 29cm
Googles in the Hole NNOROM SAMUEL African Wax Print Fabric 180 x 155 x 16cm /37U N D I S C O V E R E D
NNOROM SAMUEL Seeds and Harvest African Wax Print Fabric 38/ U N D I S C O V E R E D 160 x 160 x 23cm
Seeing is Believing NNOROM SAMUEL African Wax Print Fabric 160 x 185 x 19cm /39U N D I S C O V E R E D
“My involvement in the art scene is a divine one. An act that could happen only by supernatural planning.” 40/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
FAITH MICHAEL /41U N D I S C O V E R E D
ARTIST PROFILE FAITH MICHAEL Faith Michael is a fast-rising experimental artist experiences with investigative art imagination. with a natural dexterity in pop art painting. Her realistic depictions are mostly in figurative forms She has participated in various group exhibitions brushed up with muted yet conversational such as ARTMIABO INTERNATIONAL ART colors. Her brushwork illuminates the voices of FESTIVAL (2022), Art at OUIDA (2022), Through her subjects on canvas. She evokes emotional my lens organized by The Content Gallery (2022), scenes from her perspective of life using her Embassy of Spain (2021), IVTH International paintings to strengthen the weak. Online Art Exhibition by NIRANTAR (2021), the Sheroes National Art Competition organized by Faith explores issues surrounding the individual UNESCO Abuja (2020), Patches of Cloud state of being courageous in a world full of organized by Afiong Ebekpo (2020), oppression, she tells compelling stories of the ordinary man; their struggles, debt, win, and Faith Michael graduated from the School of Art societal acceptance. and Design, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo state, Nigeria where she bagged a Higher National Her mentors Uzoma Samuel, and Ejoh Wallace Diploma in Painting. have guided her to mature into the personality of a visual artist who understands the strategic processes of how to combine real-life 42/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
Retro II FAITH MICHAEL Acrylic on Canvas /43U N D I S C O V E R E D 91 x 112cm 2023
FAITH MICHAEL Retro I Acrylic on Canvas 44/ U N D I S C O V E R E D 91 x 112cm 2023
Guileless III FAITH MICHAEL Acrylic on Canvas /45U N D I S C O V E R E D 91 x 107cm 2023
FAITH MICHAEL Guileless II Acrylic on Canvas 46/ U N D I S C O V E R E D 91 x 107cm 2023
Anjola FAITH MICHAEL Acrylic on Canvas /47U N D I S C O V E R E D 61 x 76cm 2023
48/ U N D I S C O V E R E D
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