By Henry Akubuiro
The highly anticipated art exhibition, “Perilous Journeys: Reflections on Migration” will take place in the prestigious Room 3 at the British Museum, London, from 27th July – 24th of September, 2023.
In this exhibition, Enotie Ogbebor will be exhibiting two artworks – a painting and a sculpture on queen India mask, which is known as the Festac 77 emblem. The British museum is supporting the show with an installation by a Mexican artist.
In this exhibition, Ogebor explores the depths of human experiences. inspired by the complexities and challenges faced by migrants across the world, Ogbebor’s collection delves deep into the emotional and physical landscapes of their perilous journeys.
Through a masterful blend of visual mediums, the artist offers a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of migration, its causes and consequences. The British Museum, renowned for its commitment to showcasing art that sparks dialogue and creates awareness, said, in a statement, it “is honoured to host this groundbreaking exhibition.”
It estreesed: “Perilous Journeys: Reflections on Migration” invites viewers to embark on a visual expedition, unraveling the multifaceted narratives of migrants worldwide. The collection intertwines themes of hope, resilience, loss, and the human spirit’s indomitable strength.
“Each artwork encapsulates a unique story, offering a glimpse into the personal experiences of those who have undertaken arduous journeys in search of safety, freedom, and a better life.”
This global premiere marks an extraordinary opportunity to witness Ogbebor’s evocative and powerful creations. The artist’s ability to blend aesthetics with social consciousness has garnered international acclaim, and “Perilous Journeys: Reflections on Migration” promises to be an unforgettable experience for art enthusiasts, scholars, and the general public alike.
The venue of the programme, Room 3 of the British Museum, will avail the visitors the opportunity to have the chance to engage with the artwork, attend guided tours, and participate in thought-provoking discussions on migration and its impact on society.
Ogbebor’s compelling collection, said the curator, “shines a light on one of the most pressing issues of our time.” It invites us to celebrate the power of art to foster understanding, empathy, and change.
Above all, “The Perilous Journeys: Reflections on Migration” showcases thought-provoking artworks that shed light on the issue of migration, particularly in Nigeria’s Edo State.
Ogbebor is presenting a painting and a sculpture in Brass using the ancient lost wax method of the Benin bronze casters guild in Igun Street. The artworks powerfully capture the routes of traffickers and evoke the emotional impact of this horrendous experience.
Drawing inspiration from the Queen Idia mask, commonly known as the Festac mask, Enotie traces the current human trafficking phenomenon back to the British invasion of 1897.
This invasion resulted in the attack on the Benin Kingdom, mass killings, looting of the Benin bronzes, and the imposition of colonialism, which disrupted centuries-old societies governed by taboos, cultural norms, traditions, and laws, replacing them with foreign influences that fostered an unhealthy pursuit of materialism.
Ogbebor’s artistic contribution to the “Perilous Journeys” exhibition is deeply significant. Using the ancient lost wax method employed by the Benin bronze casters guild in Igun Street, Enotie crafted a painting and a sculpture in Brass that speak volumes about the issue of migration and human trafficking.
The sculpture, in particular, masterfully captures the intricate web of routes taken by traffickers, while evoking the intense emotional toll experienced by victims. The use of Brass as a medium pays homage to the historic craftsmanship of the Benin bronze casters, adding a layer of cultural and historical significance to the artwork.
Besides, Ogbebor’s artworks serve as a poignant reminder of the profound impact historical events can have on contemporary issues such as migration and human trafficking. By exploring the consequences of colonialism and the disruption of traditional societal structures, the artworks compel viewers to reflect on the enduring consequences of such actions.
His use of the ancient lost wax method and the incorporation of culturally significant symbols in Brass further underscore the resilience and richness of Nigerian heritage, while simultaneously shedding light on the dark realities faced by victims of human trafficking.
A Cambridge University’s MAA Visiting Fellow, Enotie Ogbebor, is a renowned multidisciplinary visual artist and singer/composer/performer who proudly embraces his rich Benin heritage. Rooted in a centuries-old bronze casting tradition, Wood carving, Ivory and terracotta, passed down through generations, Enotie’s artistry seamlessly blends cultural lineage with powerful, colourful imagery.