The exhibition series speaks to the core of one of those situations that tested the resilience of the icon and also the fundamental of humanity in everyone. How do you measure the true test of a man when he stands in the face of tyranny?
TO commemorate the 90th birthday of the illustrious Professor Wole Soyinka, the 7th edition of the exhibition series, “Timeless Memories: Elastic Effects of Wole Soyinka” will open on Saturday, July 13, at Kongi’s Harvest Gallery, Freedom Park, Lagos Island. the opening coincides with the actual birthday (July 13) of the revered Nobel laureate, and global humanist.
Titled, “The Man Who Didn’t Die in the Face of Tyranny”; the exhibition is a core part of ‘THE KONGI SEASON’ — the month-long celebration of Wole Soyinka@90 organised by the Committee for Relevant Art, CORA with support of the Park management.
This special tributary celebration, conceptualized and curated by historian and archivist Oludamola Adebowale, offers an immersive and experimental showcase that delves deep into the life and works of Africa’s first Nobel laureate in literature.
“The exhibition series speaks to the core of one of those situations that tested the resilience of the icon and also the fundamental of humanity in everyone. How do you measure the true test of a man when he stands in the face of tyranny?” states Adebowale.
Inaugurated seven years ago, the exhibition series was conceived as a unique platform to interrogate Soyinka’s work through immersive experiences. Last year’s edition held November as a flagship event at the Lagos Book & Art Festival, LABAF, was specially requested by Soyinka to go on tour, which necessitates its return this year to commemorate his milestone birthday.
“The Man Who Didn’t Die in the Face of Tyranny,” draws its inspiration from Soyinka’s ‘Prison Notes’, “The Man Died,” originally published in 1971.
The exhibition features special audio and video installations where Soyinka narrates his harrowing prison experiences and his survival through 22 months of solitary confinement between 1967 and 1969.
Special Features
– Audio and Video Installations: Personal narrations by Soyinka about his imprisonment and solitary confinement.
– Installation of the Solitary Confinement Cell with Archival Newspaper Clippings
– Exclusive Interviews: A special interview with Oludamola Adebowale and Wole Soyinka, offering insights into the conception and significance of the exhibition.
Event Details
– Opening Date: July 13, 2024
– Location: Kongi’s Harvest Gallery, Freedom Park, Lagos Island
– Duration: The exhibition will be open until the end of July.
Kongi’s Harvest Gallery, which also serves as the private office of Professor Soyinka, provides a fitting backdrop for this celebratory and reflective exhibition. This edition not only honors Soyinka’s enduring legacy but also provides an engaging and thought-provoking experience for all attendees.
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About the Curator
OLUDAMOLA Adebowale is a historian, archivist, and culture advocate dedicated to preserving and promoting Nigerian history and arts. He has been the driving force behind the annual “Timeless Memories: Elastic Effects of Wole Soyinka” series, ensuring that Soyinka’s contributions to literature and human rights are celebrated and remembered.
