1-54 Marrakech Art Fair 2024

For our participation at 1-54 Marrakech 2024, Retro Africa is proud to present, "Harmonizing Narratives", a selection of works by Adewale Kolawole John, Ayanfe Olarinde, Uthman Wahaab.

Adewale Kolawole John's portrait artistry is centered on preserving the rich heritage of Yoruba traditional music through his portrayal of Sakara Musicians. His work serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safeguarding cultural roots and connecting with the past.

Ayanfe Olarinde, on the other hand, delves into a more introspective realm, exploring themes such as self-image, identity formation, social reality, collective history, and mental health. Her use of the scribbling technique adds a layer of complexity to her work, allowing for an interrogation of emotions and an exploration of fluidity in form. Olarinde's art provides a lens through which viewers can reflect on personal imperfections and the continuous journey for acceptance.

Finally, Uthman Wahaab's exploration of various styles and mediums delves into complex social phenomena both within Africa and globally. His critical examination of language, religion, ethnicity, and socio-economic crises highlights the intricacies of decolonizing Black bodies and underscores the contemporary relevance of historical legacies.

And for this reason, "Harmonizing Narratives" displays the unity in diversity through the juxtaposition of these artists' works. While their styles and mediums differ, their shared focus on preserving culture, celebrating shared human experiences, and confronting complex social issues unites them under the overarching theme of unity and harmony.

"Harmonizing Narratives" here, is an exploration of the multifaceted nature of human identity and connectivity.

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