“Ènìyàn: Escape Room” – A Journey from Vulnerability to Unity

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Yusuff Aina.

Yusuf Aina works

Yusuf Aina works

Yusuf Aina works

Yusuf Aina works

Yusuf Aina works

In the heart of Lagos, Nigeria, a captivating and immersive artistic experience is currently unfolding at the Art Twenty One space. Yusuff Aina, a young and prolific multidisciplinary artist born in Nigeria in 1997, has unveiled his latest solo presentation, “Ènìyàn: Escape Room,” which will be on display until the 6th of September, 2023. This exhibition represents a profound exploration of the human experience, inviting visitors to delve into the intricate landscapes of vulnerability, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of personal growth.

Yusuff Aina’s artistic journey began at a tender age, where he discovered his passion for art and embraced creativity as his guiding light in life. His work delves into the complex psychosocial realities that shape our existence, tackling themes such as alienation, trust, belonging, and their profound impact on both our environment and our minds. Through a masterful interplay of acrylic and installation, Aina constructs alternative spaces and identities, pushing the boundaries of visual language into uncharted territories.

“Ènìyàn: Escape Room” is a comprehensive representation of Aina’s artistic practice, offering a visual diary of his personal transformation. The exhibition boasts an impressive body of work, featuring 31 new paintings, a site-specific installation, and a captivating soundscape. Each of these elements serves as portals into Aina’s world, a world where physical spaces are altered, experimentation is embraced, and symbolism reigns supreme.

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Yusuff Aina was born in 1997 in Nigeria.

Yusuf Aina works

Yusuf Aina works

Yusuff-Aina-6

Yusuff-Aina-4

Yusuff-Aina-7

But this exhibition is more than just art on display; it’s an invitation to journey from vulnerability to strength, self-awareness, and stillness. By entering each distinct room within the exhibition, visitors are encouraged to see themselves reflected within the narratives woven by Yusuff’s artistry. It becomes a space for personal connection, empathy, and understanding, fostering a sense of unity among individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences.

At the heart of Aina’s work are cartoon-like figures, motifs, and landscapes infused with fantastical elements, collectively known as ‘ainasm.’ These ethereal cords meander around ‘Eniyan,’ a recurring fictional character symbolizing the oneness of humanity and embodying the mantra of resilience. Aina’s use of symbolism transcends the realm of art, offering a profound reflection on the human condition.

The curatorial statement for “Ènìyàn: Escape Room” provides further insight into the emotional depth of Aina’s work. It reveals how the COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for profound introspection in the artist’s life. Confined within the walls of his apartment, Aina confronted deep-seated doubts and insecurities, unearthing the emotional complexities that had long remained hidden. Through his art, he articulated the struggle for authenticity and liberation from societal expectations.

The exhibition itself unfolds across five distinct rooms, each adorned in colors representing different states of mind and emotions encountered on Aina’s mental health journey. These rooms serve as visual metaphors, allowing visitors to connect with their unique emotional landscapes. The entire floor, covered in gravel painted to match the color scheme of each room, serves as a tactile reminder of the profound connection between our mental states and physical surroundings.

“Ènìyàn: Escape Room” endeavors to explore the concept of evolving through hardship, emphasizing the importance of introspection and personal evolution. It is a testament to Aina’s personal growth and his aspiration to authentically convey the depths of his inner self within his art.

The title of the exhibition, “Eniyan: Escape Room,” draws inspiration from popular culture while signifying the overarching theme of the exploration of humanity. It invites viewers to contemplate the complexities and nuances of human existence. Aina’s escape room concept serves as a metaphor for navigating life’s challenges, transcending limitations, societal norms, and personal doubts.

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Yusuf Aina poses beside one of his works

Yusuf Aina works

Yusuf Aina works

Yusuf Aina works

Yusuf Aina works

Yusuf Aina works

But beyond Aina’s personal journey, the exhibition seeks to create a space where visitors can find reflections of their own experiences and emotions. It becomes a shared therapy experience, inviting individuals to delve into their own complexities, doubts, and aspirations.

“Ènìyàn: Escape Room” is both an artistic display and an invitation to embrace vulnerability, engage with our emotions, and navigate the complexities of the human experience. It becomes a space for personal connection, empathy, and understanding, fostering a sense of unity among individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences. In the transformative realm of our minds, viewers are invited to explore their own paths of self-discovery, finding solace, inspiration, and a renewed sense of purpose.

As you step into the world of “Ènìyàn: Escape Room,” you are not just witnessing art; you are immersing yourself in a profound journey from vulnerability to unity, from introspection to self-discovery. It’s a reminder that introspection is a powerful tool for growth, offering a profound opportunity to connect with ourselves and, ultimately, with one another.

Yusuff Aina’s “Ènìyàn: Escape Room,” Retro Africa’s latest gallery take-over hosted by Art Twenty One, is on display at Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria.