Curated by: Favour Ritaro

Table of Paradox is a body of work that takes an introspective look at the history of Nigeria since the attainment of self-rule, and metaphorically unravels how her historic past, embodied by hopefulness and freedom from dependent rule, expresses itself on the modern- day.

This body of work interrogates how events in the Nigerian past which were certainly poignant resonate with contemporary social and political contexts. Repurposed Record players hold reconstructed album covers and original vinyl of songs.

These mainstream songs sung by Juju, highlife and Fuji musician are embodiments of political messaging that examines events, policy implementation, hooliganism and violence, neocolonialism, unemployment, political class wrangling etc. are juxtaposed with hope-filled speeches that set Nigerians alight with joy and celebrations of the startling event heralding self-governance creates a contextual balance.

To fostered participation the works are fused with a quick response (QR) code encrypted with a link of a playlist created online.

TABLE OF PARADOX 1, (2021) 43.7x36cm

NIGERIA by Alhaji Chief Sikiru Ayinde Barrister and his supreme Fuji  commander (1983), reconstructed album cover, digital prints, corrugated cardboard, acrylic, canvas, strawboard, QR code, repurposed record player and Vinyl record.

 

TABLE OF PARADOX 2 (2021) 42.6×33.1cm

CASHIN IN by The Lijadu Sisters (1976), reconstructed album cover, digital prints, corrugated cardboard, acrylic, canvas, strawboard, QR code, repurposed record player and Vinyl record.

                             

TABLE OF PARADOX 3 (2021), 42.6×33.1cm

The Only Condition to Save Nigeria by Ebenezer Obey (1984), reconstructed album cover, digital prints, corrugated cardboard, acrylic, canvas, strawboard, QR code, repurposed record player and Vinyl record                                

 

TABLE OF PARADOX 4 (2021), 43.7x36cm

Which Way Nigeria by Sunny Okosun (1984), reconstructed album cover, digital prints, corrugated cardboard, acrylic, canvas, strawboard, QR code, repurposed record player and Vinyl record

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       

TABLE OF PARADOX 5 (2021), 42.6×33.1cm

Austerity by Ebenezer Obey (1982), reconstructed album cover, digital prints, corrugated cardboard, acrylic, canvas, strawboard, QR code, repurposed record player and Vinyl record