(MENAFN- The Peninsula) Typically minimalist and abstract, the works of Nigerian contemporary artist Alimi Adewale loudly echo migration and freedom of speech — two pressing issues of global concern.
The art community in Qatar enjoyed a first glimpse into the oeuvre of Alimi comprising paintings and sculptures when he launched his solo exhibition 'Intersection at Anima Gallery recently. 'I use my work to explore topical urban issues, documenting everyday city people who are often neglected and displaced in the drive toward excessive urbanization, rapid modern development and the growing global economy, said the artist.
For his 'Intersection collection, Alimi utilised dhurrie rug and dyed and stitched heavy cotton as canvases for his paintings, and bronze and stone in the sculptures.
In exploring the effective use of materials in his art, the artist has created deeply layered works rich in texture and colour every art enthusiast can appreciate and discern. While the paintings depict the issue of migration, the sculptures focus on free speech - two very relevant issues confronting the world today.
Alimi's vivid depiction of mass exodus and arrival of migrants towards a singular direction achieved through his unique brushstrokes coupled with the texture of the dhurrie rug and the heavy cotton generates a volley of emotions within the beholder the same way the faceless head sculptures achieve the aim of conveying the significance of freedom of speech to everyone everywhere.
'The sculptures in this exhibition highlight the issue of free speech. These anonymous almost faceless sculptures in bronze and stone are created to start a discourse around freedom of speech, which is a principle that supports the freedom of an individual or a community, he stressed. Alimi Adewale has held solo exhibitions and taken part in group shows in the US and in several countries in Europe and Africa. He attended residencies and workshops in Sweden, the UK, Italy and his home country.
Alimi's works have been acquired by major private collectors in Nigeria and other countries in Africa as well as are part of various collections in the US, India and a number of countries in Europe and the Middle East.
'Intersection exhibition is on view at Anima Gallery at The Pearl Qatar until January 11.
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