On the 11th of June 2024 we, accompanied by our Arts Teacher Mr. Samuel had the pleasure of attending an Arts Exhibition at the Turkish Embassy facilitated by Obi Nwaegbe, Rowland Goyit and Imal Silva. It was a delightful and enriching experience.
Obi Nwaegbe, Rowland Goyit
and Imal Silva
Upon our arrival, we were warmly greeted by the Embassy staff and other schools/groups that were in attendance. We were briefed by the Turkish Ambassador to NIGERIA, His Excellency, Hidayet Bayrakatar about history of the Turkish Embassy in Nigeria. The first Turkish Embassy in Nigeria was inaugurated in August 1962, in Lagos, while the current Embassy was established in 2001, in Abuja.
His Excellency, Hidayet
Bayrakatar
The aims and objectives of the Embassy are to foster Political cooperation, Economic and trade relations, dialogue on military, security and defense industry, as well as cultural links between people of the two countries. The Embassy does host Nigerian contemporary art exhibitions annually to strengthen its cultural side and connection with Nigeria.
An Ode to Existence was the theme of the exhibition, and artworks were made by a multi-disciplinary artist, creative entrepreneur adjunct lecturer and creative policy expert Imal Silva. The approach to his art is mostly abstract and contemporary in nature. His works are expressed through acrylic and oil on canvas. His work was a testament to the vibrant cultural traditions and artistic talent of Nigeria. We were captivated by the use of bold colours, intricate patterns and the unique story telling in the artwork
During the course of the exhibition, we had the privilege of meeting and interacting with Nigerian artists who were present. They generously shared insights into their artistic process, inspirations, and cultural significance behind their artworks.
Performance by Sustainable
Building Blocks
Sustainable Development Goals discourse was also brought up, an idea was shared on how to recycle trash into artistic materials to make the world a cleaner place while tapping into our creative mind at the same time. There was also an impressive performance by Sustainable Building Blocks.
All attendees sketch on a
big white canvas.
The exhibition also provided a platform to participate in the creation of an artworks. A big white canvas was brought with multiple options of crayons and all attendees were to sketch anything that came to mind on it and sign next to our sketch to express our creativity. It came out beautiful as can be seen below.
Finished sketch by all attendees
In conclusion, attending the Nigerian art exhibition at the Turkish embassy was an enriching experience, it broadened our artistic perspective, deepened our understanding of Nigerian art, and fostered cultural connection with the Turkish culture. We are grateful for this opportunity and believe it has left a lasting impression on our artistic journey.
Written by
OKORO MITCHEL SS2
FIMIDARE OGUNDARE SS1
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