Kokopelli Gallery is set to launch its new Lagos location, accompanied by the inaugural solo exhibition of the esteemed Nigerian-Italian artist, Sisiano Paolo.
The event, titled “We are okay, but we are not like before,” is set to take place at 17 Ademola Street, Off Awolowo Rd, Ikoyi.
The exhibition will offer art enthusiasts and connoisseurs a captivating journey through Paolo’s unique artistic perspective, highlighting the intersections of culture, identity, and transformation. Paolo aims to engage viewers in a thoughtful exploration of the shifting dynamics that shape our perceptions of self and society.
“We are okay, but we are not like before” exhibition, with more than 20 captivating artworks, delves into the intricate interplay of human emotions and experiences. Curated by Ian Audifferen, it will take place from September 2nd to September 24th, 2023, at the gallery’s newly established Lagos location, No 17, Ademola Street, Ikoyi.
The event commences with an exclusive Private Viewing on September 2nd, accessible by invitation only, followed by a grand Public Opening on September 3rd. On September 9th, a thought-provoking artist talk is scheduled, offering visitors a unique opportunity to gain insights into the creative process. The exhibition’s conclusion will be marked by the enchanting “Tales and Cocktails” edition on September 23rd, where art enthusiasts can engage with the works in an immersive setting.
“We are okay but we are not like before” serves as a profound exploration of the human self, viewed through the lens of dynamic experiences and their aftermath. Paolo’s masterful collection embodies the notion that life is a journey through a mosaic of emotions, encompassing both uplifting and challenging moments. The exhibition captivates the essence of resilience in the face of life’s inevitable changes, emerging as a triumphant celebration over adversity.
Sisiano Paolo’s words echo this sentiment, “If each time our hearts sank or jumped, we saw our tears in colour, maybe then would we truly understand how much pain or happiness a person or event once brought us.”
The exhibition is a profound examination of the interplay between trauma and healing, where the artworks guide viewers through a journey of introspection, showcasing the profound influence of past experiences on present and future perspectives.
The collection spans various techniques and mediums, including ink, watercolour, and acrylic on canvas. Paolo’s unique “scraping” technique unites his creations, providing a distinct coherence to his opus. Each artwork offers a window into the emotional narrative of individual experiences, exemplified in pieces like ‘One take’, exploring the yearning for a future distinct from the past, and ‘Fade Away’, depicting the complex web of human relationships and the pursuit of self-autonomy.
Movement, a central theme in Paolo’s work stemming from his background in dance and fashion, is elegantly woven into the pieces, with ‘Flow’ serving as the embodiment of his overarching message.
“We are okay, but we are not like before” invites visitors to embark on an introspective journey, peeling back layers of the self and underscoring how experiences etch indelible imprints upon us.
Paolo is a versatile artist with a rich background encompassing musical theatre, dance, fashion, film, and storytelling. His artistic journey began in 2016, and since then, he has explored various mediums, from thread on canvas to watercolour and ink on paper. Paolo draws inspiration from relatable real-life situations, infusing his artworks with a personal narrative that resonates with audiences.
Founded in 2021, Kokopelli Gallery is a contemporary art space dedicated to showcasing visionary artists who excel in the art of storytelling. Designed with multiple rooms, including an immersive Grotto for meditation, the gallery is a hub where creativity and storytelling converge. It offers a platform for creators to engage in enriching dialogues and fosters an evolving tradition of narrative art.
