Press Release
A TALE OF TWO PALETTES
This comparative analysis reveals the distinct approaches of two artists, Akinbanji Osanyemi and Eyituoyomi Martins Ewetan, who employ opposing palettes in their work. While Osanyemi’s palette is characterized by a grayscale aesthetic, Ewetan’s palette is marked by chromatic rendering.
Akinbanji’s grayscale palette bears resemblance to the visual perception of a newborn, whose grayscale vision is initially blurred. In contrast, Ewetan’s chromatic palette parallels the developed color perception of a mature individual, encompassing the full spectrum of colors. With their respective palettes established, this examination will explore their oeuvres.
Akinbanji Osanyemi’s figurative works manipulate light and dark to convey human emotions, challenges, and experiences. Conversely, Eyituoyomi Martins Ewetan’s artistic expression is deeply rooted in his childhood dreams, aspirations, and current experiences.
AKINBANJI OSANYEMI
Akinbanji Osanyemi, born in the late 80s, is a Lagos-based, self-trained visual artist and an Economics graduate of Joseph Ayo Babalola University in Osun State, Nigeria. An astute observer, Akinbanji possesses exceptional skills in representing subjects, particularly in drawing on planes. This proficiency significantly influenced his chosen artistic style, widely recognized in the art world as ‘Realism.’ Determined to refine his craft, Akinbanji seized the opportunity to enhance his technical abilities, focusing on shading, understanding proportion, and achieving balance in his work. In his pursuit to make a meaningful impact with his artistic skills, he emphasizes flexibility and contemporary richness in his conceptualization.
Akinbanji holds the belief that art should not only showcase an individual’s skill but also serve as a powerful medium for conveying messages that address irregularities in the human world. His unyielding thirst for innovation is evident in his versatility, showcased through striking charcoal drawings and his unique combination of collages with painting and other materials. This approach allows him to create forms that are simultaneously realistic and surrealistic. Akinbanji practices art professionally and has actively participated in numerous art exhibitions in Lagos, Nigeria, and London, establishing himself as a noteworthy presence in the contemporary art scene.
Selected Exhibitions
1. IMAGINENATIVES Alexis Gallery, Lagos Nigeria___2019
2. BALD IS BEAUTIFUL Alexis Gallery, Lagos Nigeria___2019
3. LANDSCAPE Bricklane Gallery, London UK___2020
4. IMPRESS ME Lagos Art show, Lagos Nigeria___2022
Art Fairs
1. MINIATURE ART FAIR, Ogirikan Art Gallery, Lagos Nigeria, 2021
2. MINIATURE ART FAIR, Ogirikan Art Gallery, Lagos Nigeria, 2022
3. LANDSCAPE , Bricklane Gallery, London UK, 2020
4. ART-A-WHIRL, Northeast Minneapolis Arts Association (NEMAA) USA, 2024
Auctions
1. SOGAL AUCTION Signature Art Gallery, Lagos, 2019
2. SOGAL AUCTION Signature Art Gallery, Lagos, 2021
3. SOGAL AUCTION Signature Art Gallery, Lagos, 2022
Residency
Alexis Gallery, 2019
EYITUOYOMI M. EWETAN
Eyituoyomi Martins Ewetan, a Nigerian-born artist with a background in civil engineering, has been on an artistic journey since his college days, where he first began sketching. Embracing a unique and dynamic approach to his multifaceted artworks, Ewetan builds his series from thumbnail sketches, playfully capturing caricature likenesses that form the foundation of his captivating narratives.
Ewetan blends abstract, figurative, and contemporary elements to weave compelling stories that delve into profound connections between individuals, self-growth, awareness, and cultural traditions.
Guided by his diverse experiences and inspired by the enchanting allure of music and architectural structures, Ewetan’s artistic process is an introspective exploration, celebrating the richness of African heritage and the beauty of human experiences.
Through his art, Eyituoyomi aspires to ignite contemplation and appreciation for life’s beauty and intricacies. With each series, he invites viewers to embark on a journey of self-reflection and understanding, finding solace and inspiration within the colorful tapestry of
his creative narratives.
Selected Exhibitions
1 . Aurora 6 glow edition (solo show ) at CCX Chocolate City Creative Hub 2021
2. The Handshake , Group Show, Ogirikan Art Gallery, 2022
3. Windows of obsession, Ogirikan Art Gallery, 2024
4. Ogirikan Art Gallery at Foundations, Winter 2023
5. A Journey Through Multifaceted Narratives, Ogirikan Art Gallery, 2023
6 . VISUAL EXPLORATION V, Ogirikan Art Gallery, 2024