Thursday, June 4, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Raji Bamidele brings ‘The Melodious Struggle of Souls and Consciousness’ home

Raji Bamidele

Absa Africa recently announced the homecoming of ‘The Melodious Struggle of Souls and Consciousness,’ a solo exhibition by renowned Nigerian artist, Raji Bamidele.

Bamidele, the 2019 Absa L’Atelier Ambassador, invited art enthusiasts on a profound journey exploring the depths of human existence through his captivating works.

This exhibition, part of the Absa L’Atelier initiative in collaboration with the South African National Association for the Visual Arts (SANAVA), draws inspiration from the Yoruba belief system.

Bamidele’s art reflects the interconnectivity of soul, consciousness, and spirit, highlighting how our inner world shapes our experiences.

Dr. Paul Bayliss, Absa’s Senior Art and Museum Curator, emphasized the importance of supporting the arts, particularly for young Africans.

“The arts sector is booming in Africa, offering not only economic opportunities but also a platform to shape the continent’s future narrative.”

He acknowledged the transformative power of art, citing the UNDP’s support for the arts in poverty reduction and global perception.

Bamidele’s self-taught talent exemplifies the abundance of exceptional young artists on the continent. 

His success story, Dr. Bayliss believes, will inspire others to pursue artistic careers and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s cultural tapestry.

The exhibition opened to the public on Saturday, June 22nd, at the Alliance Française Gallery in Lagos and runs until July 13th, 2024.