Saturday 11 November 2023

Across generations of artists, Sogal auction 2023 displays 'masterpieces'

'Kingsmen' (oil on canvas, 95 x 105cm, dated 2023) by Victor Chigozie Anachuna

OVER 30 years of experience in art market comes as great asset as Signature Beyond Art Gallery sets for its 2023 Sogal Art Auction. With masterpieces and timeless art, Sogal Art Auction will assert its nearly 10 years of consistency in the secondary art market of Africa.

Currently on preview after it opened on Saturday, November 4, and continued till Friday 10, the main auction tagged Modern and Contemporary holds on Sunday, November 12,  2023 from 6:30 p.m-8:30 p.m, at Signature Beyond Art Gallery, 107, Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos. 

Some of the lots for the auction include that of departed modernist, Ben Osawe; contemporary artists, Tayo Olayode, Dauda Mohammed, Chike Anayo, Victor Chigozie, Raji Mohammed and Okeke Maduabuchi Precious among others in display of over 60 art pieces for sale. Among such artworks are Adorable', by Ojegoke Pelumi Ayobami, 'Self-confidence Matters' by Godstand Osimeh Ederibhalo, and Tochukwu Orazulike's 'Muds and Clays'. For Ayobami, his Adorable symbolizes the profound essence of femininity, portraying women as endearing and alluring, deeply cherished and respected within society. The artist notes:  "What distinguishes them is their innate, unspoiled beauty. They maintain a serene and charming demeanor even in the face of life’s trials."

The artist explains that the pattern incorporated in the piece is drawn from the vintage Adire style known as Kampala. "This pattern serves as a representation of their inherent beauty. I utilize this pattern in several of my artworks to convey the message of the extraordinary beauty that we may be on the verge of losing."

Ederibhalo's 'Self-confidence Matters', is about stepping into the world of bold strokes of colour and texture woven in a narrative of empowerment and self-assuredness. The artist says that the artwork celebrates the strength that lies within every individual. "The calming hues exude a sense of positivity, while the intricate details invite viewers to explore the layers of self-confidence. Just as confidence is a multi-faceted gem that shines differently in each of us, this artwork invites you to reflect on your unique journey and embrace the power of self-assurance." The artist argues that  ‘Self Confidence Matters’ is not just a piece of art; it’s an invitation to believe in yourself and the potential that you hold. Part of the text reads: "Let it resonate with your soul, and may it inspire you to embrace your own confidence journey.”

Orazulike's 'Muds and Clays' portrays the overwhelming effect of water insecurity, capturing the artist's subjects in a state of resentment as they grapple with the absence of water as a vital resource. The artwork has been described as underscoring the critical importance of water security, drawing inspiration from the murky and textured appearance of water in certain regions, symbolizing scarcity, pollution, and health threats. "The waves of spray paint, resembling the marbled patterns found on the water’s surface, seamlessly blend with the subjects using oil paints," Orazulike explains. "This technique symbolizes the connection between man and natural resources. Furthermore, these waves extend beyond representing water, inviting viewers to explore and contemplate complex global challenges and experiences visually."

In a different and unique style, Tayo Olayode's 'Face Series brings freshness to the Sogal Auction 2023 as the artist's presents fascinating drawings. Also, in Choice Okereafor's mixed media titled 'Inner Peace' comes an ode to the quiet strength that resides within everyone.

One of Nigeria's popular festivals, Durbar, gets attention of Abdusalam Abdukareem in an oil on canvas painting dated 2023. Titled 'Durbar', the painting celebrates the festival described as a vibrant world of cultural celebration, history, and the timeless beauty of tradition. 

For Dauda Mohammed's mixed media of buttons on board, it presents a multidimensional effect that comes to energise creativity. One of his works for the auction asked: 'Who am I?'

Sogal Auction 2023 is presenting over 60 lots, also adding window for absentee biddings. In addition, the auction house explained that telephone bidding on the site www.signaturebeyond.com will only be accepted on lots with a lower estimate of N500,000 or above. The instructions also states that new bidders must provide proof of identity when submitting bids. "Failure to do this may result in your bid not being processed," Signature Beyond Gallery  states in the catalogue of the auction. "Send your absentee bids to autions@ signaturebeyond.com. Please note that bids should be submitted no later than 4 p.m. on the the day prior to the sale."

Also read: Separating Yoruba religious tradition from Isese

Translucent S.I. Media management agency for artists and art galleries


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