LEAD CURATOR’S STATEMENT: EMOTIONAL LAYERS OF EXISTENCE

Lead Curator’s Statement:

As the founder and artistic director of this gallery, it has been a privilege to bring Emotional Layers of Existence to life—a show that speaks to the intricate ways we experience and express emotion. This exhibition merges the talents of two distinct yet complementary artists, Opara Courage and Nebolisa Kelly, each offering us a lens into the nuanced layers of human existence.

Opara Courage, with his memory-driven approach, captures fleeting moments of emotion, blurring the boundaries of time and space. This is especially evident in works like Men’s Zone II, Irreplaceable I & II, and My Beautiful Years. His 14 works evoke a deeply personal engagement with memory, allowing us to connect with feelings long buried or forgotten. Nebolisa Kelly, in contrast, invites us to witness raw emotion through the precise detail of hyperrealism. This is particularly striking in his Out of The Woods series. His 21 works capture life’s intense beauty and complexity, presenting images that feel as though they could leap from the canvas into our world.

While their techniques differ—one fluid and nostalgic, the other sharp and immediate—both artists share a profound sensitivity to the human experience. Together, they explore how emotions shape our identities, our relationships, and our understanding of the world. This exhibition is not just a visual journey but an emotional one, where the boundaries between memory and reality are softened by the power of feeling.

Olorogun Jeff Ajueshi, Lead Curator, Emotional Layers of Existence; Artistic Director, Thought Pyramid Art Centre.

Gallery Introduction: Undiscovered Abuja 2.0

Creating a first series is a notable achievement, but the true mark of dedication and intention is the ability to follow up with a second series. While Undiscovered Benin 1.0 captivated audiences at our gallery space in Benin earlier this year, we are thrilled to present Undiscovered Abuja 2.0. Following the success of its inaugural series in 2023, this second series in 2024 is set to be even more dynamic and groundbreaking.

Undiscovered Abuja 2.0 is bolder and more ambitious, featuring over 100 works by 23 dedicated Nigerian fast rising/emerging artists. Our decision to showcase more than 10 artists in this series was driven by the need to dispel the myth of laziness among Nigerian youth artists. Despite economic challenges, these young artists have demonstrated inspirational commitment and resilience. By exhibiting up to six works from the participating artists, we underscore the seriousness and readiness of these talented individuals for the art world.

As you explore the gallery, take the opportunity to connect with the artists and support their journeys. Many have created these collectables through sheer ruggedness and resourcefulness. They deserve this platform and the many opportunities that lie ahead. Let’s raise a big and loud cheer to the artists of Undiscovered Abuja 2.0, who have proven their mettle and earned this spotlight.

Above all, Undiscovered Abuja 2.0 is a statement of hope. By hosting this group exhibition amidst the nation’s challenging economic realities, we send a powerful message to the participating artists, visual artists across Africa, and our guests: never stop believing that something good can happen at any moment. It also communicates the importance of being prepared, so when the opportunities you have earned through hard work and consistency come your way, you are ready to seize them without hesitation.

Olorogun Jeff Ajueshi

Artistic Director, and Lead Centre Curator,

Thought Pyramid Art Centre

Abuja|Lagos|Benin|Oghara