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Unto Us a King is Born: A Profound Artistic Collaboration

Unto Us a King is Born: A Profound Artistic Collaboration
Photo Courtesy: Babatunde Olufon / Gobe Joseph

“Unto Us a King is Born” is an inspiring journey into the transformative power of art, echoing the hope and renewal of the Christmas season. Through the collaborative efforts of art collector Babatunde Olufon and artist Gobe Joseph, this project breathes new life into cultural heritage while celebrating the spirit of creativity and shared human narratives.

A Christmas-Inspired Art Journey

This project beautifully mirrors the Christmas story, drawing powerful parallels between the birth of a king and the act of artistic creation:

  • The birth of a king symbolizes renewal and hope.
  • The reinterpretation of ‘Ori Olokun’ celebrates a rebirth of cultural heritage.
  • The collaboration highlights the beauty of creative partnerships.
  • The final artwork serves as a gift, much like the symbolic offerings of the Magi.

This metaphor ties the project to the timeless Christmas narrative, making it a celebration of both history and imagination.

The Collaborators

Babatunde Olufon: A Custodian of Culture

Babatunde Olufon is more than an art collector; he is a steward of history and culture. For over two decades, he has curated the FonB Collection, a rich archive of over 500 pieces spanning diverse forms of artistic expression, such as:

  • Paintings
  • Sculptures
  • Pottery
  • Tapestry
  • Photography
  • Unique collectibles like whiskey bottles and family heirlooms

As an architect, Babatunde’s understanding of space and form brings a unique perspective to his collection. His work is not just about amassing pieces but preserving and celebrating the narratives they represent.

Gobe Joseph: A Visionary Artist

Based in Ibadan, Gobe Joseph is a contemporary Nigerian artist whose work explores the connections between self, nature, and heritage. With expertise in acrylic and oil painting, Gobe’s art reflects Ibadan’s cultural and historical richness while infusing it with modern relevance. His creative approach celebrates tradition, ensuring it evolves through innovative storytelling.

Unto Us a King is Born: A Profound Artistic Collaboration

Photo Courtesy: Babatunde Olufon / Gobe Joseph

Reimagining a Cultural Treasure

The Iconic ‘Ori Olokun’

At the heart of this collaboration is ‘Ori Olokun’, a replica of the Bronze Head from Ife. This historic artifact holds immense significance:

  • Historical Context: Discovered in Ife in 1938, the piece is believed to represent Yoruba kingship and serves as a symbol of leadership and cultural dignity.
  • Personal Connection: For both Babatunde and Gobe, ‘Ori Olokun’ bridges their professional and personal worlds. The artifact is a central icon in the logo of the Nigerian Institute of Architects and a celebrated symbol of Yoruba heritage.

An Artistic Dialogue

Gobe Joseph approached the reinterpretation of this iconic piece with deep respect and creativity:

  • Honoring its cultural significance while breathing new life into it.
  • Infusing his unique acrylic and oil painting techniques.
  • Exploring themes of renewal, transformation, and legacy.
  • Capturing the spirit of a “new birth,” much like the promise of hope symbolized by Christmas.

This process celebrates both continuity and evolution, creating a piece that is both timeless and contemporary.

Conclusion

“Unto Us a King is Born” showcases the transformative power of collaboration in art. By reimagining ‘Ori Olokun,’ the project bridges history and creativity, offering a modern take on a treasured cultural icon. Like the Christmas story, this project embodies renewal, transformation, and the enduring power of hope.

The collaboration between Babatunde Olufon and Gobe Joseph is a reminder of how art connects us to our past while opening new doors to the future. Their work invites us to see heritage as a living, evolving narrative.

 

 

Published by Mark V.

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