‘In Her Hands’ exhibition: Sope Adelaja’s artistic vision of nurture and sustainability

Sope Adelaja, a Nigerian-born artist, is a nomadic photographer, storyteller, and director who has used photography as a tool for self-expression since the age of 18. His work translates profound thoughts into visual narratives, aiming to drive change in global cultural practices.

Deeply inspired by life, nature, and human experiences, Adelaja’s art reflects his quest for a deeper understanding of the human condition. His curiosity about diverse ways of living has fueled a passionate call for environmental sustainability.

This passion has led him to advocate for environmental stewardship through his exhibitions. In Her Hands, in particular, highlights the pivotal role of rural women as guardians of the land—nurturing, protecting, and sustaining the planet while embodying the spirit of care and resilience.

The exhibition goes beyond conventional displays, telling stories and capturing moments from Nigeria’s rich cultural tapestry. It reframes nurturing not just as a trait often associated with women but as a vital force for sustaining our environment and planet.

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Through extensive research, meaningful conversations, and evocative photography, Adelaja has created installations that document the lived experiences of women from various cultural backgrounds across Lagos, Kano, Taraba, Niger, and Sokoto states.

In an interview with Guardian Life, Sope Adelaja shares mind-blowing insights into what birthed the In Her Hands exhibition and the need to broadcast this to the global space.

Please tell us what the In Her Hands exhibition is about.

The In Her Hands exhibition explores stories and moments from Nigeria’s cultural landscape through research, dialogue, and photography. It emphasises nurturing as a powerful act central to environmental sustainability, viewing it as both a feminine strength and a universal responsibility.

How does In Her Hands challenge traditional views of nature and sustainability?

The exhibition also highlights how women in rural Nigerian communities actively care for the land. Their nurturing extends beyond families to the earth itself—cultivating, protecting, and sustaining it. By spotlighting their resilience and lived experiences, the exhibition shifts sustainability from abstract policy to an inclusive, relational practice rooted in shared humanity.

What role does femininity play in your exploration of environmental themes?

My art often depicts women engaged in nurturing activities—working the soil, harvesting crops, and tending to nature. These scenes emphasise the critical role women play in sustaining life. By centring these figures, my art underlines that environmental sustainability relies on human-scale efforts grounded in care and immediacy.

How does In Her Hands merge art with activism to inspire sustainability?

The exhibition merges art and activism by employing multimedia installations to create a compelling narrative about nurturing and environmental sustainability. Specifically, In Her Hands merges art and storytelling, centring women as change agents, sparking collective responsibility, and creating a call to action that inspires viewers to participate actively in preserving the planet.

How does Adelaja’s vision redefine our relationship with the natural world?

Adelaja redefines nurturing as a form of environmental stewardship. His work connects cultural heritage, family traditions, and agricultural practices to the care of the earth, encouraging audiences to view sustainability as an intimate, collective responsibility.

What emotions and messages do the vivid colours and textures evoke?

The vibrant hues and rich textures in my artwork evoke hope, pride, and empathy. They emphasise that sustainability is not just a responsibility, but a shared journey intertwined with humanity’s fate and cultural heritage.

What are the key visual motifs, and how do they convey urgency?

Key motifs include women working the land, organic patterns mirroring natural cycles, and bold colours inspired by the environment. These elements symbolise growth, care, and the interconnectedness of humans and nature.

How is your approach relevant to today’s global environmental challenges?

In Her Hands is very relevant because it bridges cultural, social, and ecological dimensions, offering solutions rooted in everyday human activities. By centring community-driven care, my art highlights practical, inclusive approaches to sustainability.

How does the exhibition inspire viewers to preserve nature?

The exhibition encourages audiences to see sustainability as accessible and rooted in care and community. Through immersive storytelling and cultural insights, it reframes environmental stewardship as a shared, collective endeavour.

This is not all, In Her Hands will be one to experience as it promises to be inspiring and actively provoke people to channel energy in the sustainability of our environment. So, save the date for December 14-18, 2024. The venue is Red Door Gallery, 51b, Bishop Oluwole Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.