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By Zika Bobby
In a heartwarming display of cultural reverence, the Centre for Black and African Arts and Civilization (CBAAC) was honoured with a visit from Pa Emmanuel Taiwo Jegede, an 82-year-old artistic cultural icon.
This visit reignited the flames of FESTAC ’77’s creative brilliance and left an indelible mark on all who witnessed it.
As Jegede strolled through the Centre, nostalgia washed over him, and his eyes welled up with tears of joy upon beholding some of his timeless masterpieces. The emotional response was palpable as he shared the inspirations behind works like Ikunle Abiyamo and Face of a Public House offering a glimpse into the rich narratives that define his art.
With a career spanning continents and decades, Pa Jegede’s artistic journey is a testament to the power of African creativity and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage.
Director General of CBAAC, Aisha Adamu Augie said Pa Jegede’s visit to CBAAC is a reminder of the significance of cultural icons like him, who represented the United Kingdom at the Second World Festival of Black Arts and African Culture (Festac ’77) in Lagos, Nigeria.
“The centre takes pride in celebrating this living legend, whose contributions continue to inspire generations of artists, thinkers, and cultural enthusiasts. Pa Jegede’s visit will forever be etched in the annals of CBAAC’s history as a moment of profound cultural significance,” she said.
Born in June 1943 in Ayegbaju Ekiti, Nigeria, Pa Jegede is a renowned Nigerian poet, storyteller, painter, printmaker, and sculptor. His work has featured on the covers of books such as Buchi Emecheta’s novels, The Bride Price (1976) and The Slave Girl (1977).
