The art scene is set to welcome a striking new voice as Adetola Odunlami, a self-taught artist, unveils his debut show, SOUGH.

The exhibition, which holds from October 28 to November 4, 2024, at Esoteric Design in Victoria Island, offers a fresh perspective on contemporary Nigerian art.

Odunlami’s unconventional journey to the world of fine art has been as eclectic as it is inspiring.

Initially a fashion designer, Odunlami transitioned into construction, but his move into painting is now set to define his creative legacy. “My path has been unconventional,” Odunlami said, reflecting on his career.

“Fashion taught me form, construction gave me structure, and now painting allows me to explore the spaces in between.”

This exploration of spaces, both physical and metaphorical, is central to SOUGH.

Through his use of acrylic on canvas, Odunlami investigates the silent yet powerful presence of vacant buildings, transforming them into narratives rich with memory, time, and latent potential. The exhibition delves into how silence, often perceived as a void, becomes a force that resonates through empty spaces.

Influenced by both Nigerian and international artists, including Duke Asidere, Abiodun Olaku, and George Condo, Odunlami’s work bridges cultural divides while paying homage to his artistic heritage.

He credits his mother’s collection of antique Ivory art for nurturing his appreciation for the past, which he marries with his contemporary vision.

“In emptiness, I find fullness,” Odunlami explains. “Each vacant room, each silent corridor tells a story. Through SOUGH, I invite the viewer to listen to these unspoken narratives.”

With his transformative take on silence and absence, Odunlami’s debut promises to be a pivotal moment in contemporary Nigerian art, not just for those familiar with his journey, but for art enthusiasts eager to experience a new, compelling narrative.