‘6 Hours’ is a collaborative art project by Nigeria’s Bolaji Alonge and Netherlands’ Ottograph (NL) that brings together painting, street art and photography.
The art exhibition will be held at Didi Museum in Victoria Island, Lagos from September 16 to 24.
‘6 Hours’ investigates contrasts and similarities of life in the home cities of the duo, Amsterdam and Lagos – two cities with a six-hour flight time between them – to deliver a narrative that is thought-provoking, engaging and inspiring.
The exhibition will explore a number of themes, such as life in a megapolis on the seashore, dance, music, masquerades, freedom of expression and others.
The exhibition is organized with the support of the consulate general of the kingdom of the Netherlands, Lagos.
The artworks will be produced during an immersive art residency in Lagos. It is the first time the artists are working together – combining their passion for street art and street photography.
“I aim to capture the everyday reality of any society I get immersed in, with Lagos, Nigeria mostly presented. In the course of documenting our history, I take photos of people, architecture, animals, our busy lives, nature and the ecosystem of my environment,” Alonge said.
For Ottograph, street art “is a form of total freedom in art, you can do it whenever, wherever, to spread your message and creativity. There are basically no rules”.
Alonge added: “Life for many today is on the phone; art is what brings us to the moment. The power of the art of photography in reflecting who we are goes a long way in boosting the confidence of a people.”
“I believe in spreading the knowledge of how we live today, using the internet, sharing our beauty and pride with the rest of the world. One of the best ways to document history is through photography, it brings the past back to life.”
Ottograph said a lot of the symbolism in his murals constitutes a long ongoing story. He wants people to come up with their own interpretation when looking at his murals and paintings.
Alonge said he “is convinced that in today’s world, artists should work together. It broadens the scope and presents more opportunities”.
“From my experience, the right collaboration amplifies the message jointly put forward by artists. Collaborations gives the audience and collectors more to enjoy and experience.
“6 HOURS exhibition is special because it brings two countries, Nigeria and the Netherlands together in a grand way.
“Ottograph, a world-class street artist visiting Nigeria for the first time whose very recognizable pop art syncs with the positive message of Eyes of a Lagos Boy.”
Ottograph, a Dutch large-scale muralist, has been slinging paint since the age of ten. He started out in Amsterdam to become an internationally acclaimed artist. Ottograph has established himself firmly in the heart of the global street art movement.
Alonge is a journalist, artist, photographer and actor from Lagos, Nigeria. Also known as Eyes of a Lagos Boy, he has two decades of experience in documenting history, always looking for beauty where it is least expected.
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