Laureates College holds art exhibition

Pupils of Laureates College, Mafoluku Lagos have held an exhibition tagged, ‘Renaissance’, in the school’s art gallery. They displayed paintings and various art works done mostly by the junior and senior secondary pupils, including landscape paintings, drawings of living and still figures, sculpted objects, tie and dye textile works and were appreciated by all the visitors.

Giving the commencement speech, the school director/proprietress, Dr. Olatokunbo Somolu, disclosed that it was the aim of the college to promote arts in education as much as they do the sciences, citing its importance in society. Addressing journalists, the director also said:”we should train and encourage our children in a way they would be able to utilise their talents in a profitable way. The government should also come up with policies to help every student discover their talents, strengths and make a living by doing things that are pleasurable everyday.”

Among the special guests, renowned Nigerian painter, printmaker and sculptor Bruce Onobrakpeya, while delivering a special address on the history and development of art in Nigeria, expressed his delight about the show because “…it confirms an awakening and a renewed interest in the arts in our secondary schools where the decision to take art as a career often takes place. The visual art has not always enjoyed this exposure.”

He also stated: “Renaissance is very interesting and relevant to us now in Nigeria because we are passing through a state of rebirth or revival and this is not just a new growth in the country’s visual arts but a revolution in the art history.

“We can however conclude that the evidence of the Nigerian art renaissance can be found clearly in both government and private developments which are now yielding great results. Before now, it was difficult for talented students to gain sponsorship from their parents to study art in higher institution. Parents don’t hesitate anymore to support art studies, “ the veteran artist said, adding that the “art works on display in this exhibition by the students of the Laureates College are part of the renaissance. Among the pieces here are the seeds which will lead the young artists to create master pieces.”

One of the exhibitors, Kunbi Gbajumo, an SS1 pupil expressed her happiness and joy about the exhibition. “I feel proud about my works,” she said. “I love art and I would like to practise it professionally. When I feel down and have nowhere to express myself, I just pick up my pen and draw and then I get better, especially when it comes out nice. Art is something I use to express myself,” she added.

Jibola Yusuf, an SS2 pupil and exhibitor of several drawings including the Festac ‘77 symbol, said: “I would like to study art at the higher level. I am happy with my drawings and the art show in general.”

The school’s art teacher, Oluchi Benedict, said she was proud of her pupils. She added: “ Art is a way you express yourself and could be done through painting, drawing or singing. The art room is always open to the students, regardless of their academic department.

“I am happy and even surprised to see so much people at the show and by next year, we will have more works to show”.