The Turkish Embassy in Nigeria is currently adorned with the vibrant and thought-provoking works of Imal Silva, an artist whose vision and creativity transcend borders. His ongoing exhibition which opened in grand style on the 6th day of June, is true to his art brand, “The Art of Silva,” the testament to his mastery of the craft and his profound ability to communicate through visual media. Curated by the esteemed Beste Gursu, the theme of the exhibition, “An Ode to Existence,” beautifully encapsulates Silva’s exploration of life, nature, and humanity.
Silva’s works, a harmonious fusion of non-traditional abstract expressionism through the combination of pallet knife painting and dripping methods, are a feast for the senses. Each canvas is a portal into the artist’s profound connection with the natural world and his exploration of the sacred relationship between Mother Earth and her inhabitants.
As you step into the embassy’s grand hall, you are immediately greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors and forms. The harmonious blend of abstraction, each one telling a unique story while collectively weaving a narrative of cultural fusion and introspection. His work is characterized by its bold use of color and dynamic composition, often featuring layered textures and intricate patterns that invite viewers to delve deeper into the canvas to uncover hidden details.
In “An Ode to Existence,” Silva uses his words and his colors to speak about Mother Earth and her inhabitants. His paintings explore the interconnectedness of all life forms and the delicate balance that sustains our planet. This theme is poignantly expressed through his vibrant depictions of nature, where flora and fauna are rendered with a sensitivity that highlights their beauty and fragility.
The array of frames spanning the exhibition floor all worthy to be centrepieces is a tour de force of earthy hues and organic shapes that seem to pulsate with the rhythms of nature. Silva’s mastery of mixed media creates layers that invite the viewer to peel back and discover hidden meanings.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is a series of paintings that delve into the theme of identity and belonging such as “The Emperor’s Hideout”,
resonating with the experiences of many who navigate the intersections of cultures seeking a haven or solace. Silva’s ability to capture the essence of this universal struggle makes his art compelling and relatable. In addition, he has written poems to accompany these works, adding a literary dimension that enhances the viewer’s experience. These poems reflect on the themes of existence, connection, and the relationship between humanity and the natural world.
Silva also addresses the relational use of Mother Earth and her inhabitants in his works. Through his unique play on textures and colors, he illustrates the symbiotic relationships that sustain life on our planet. His art encourages viewers to reflect on their interactions with the environment and consider the impact of their actions on the delicate ecosystems that support us all.
In homage to his dual Sri Lankan and Nigerian heritage, Silva seamlessly integrates traditional motifs and symbols into contemporary contexts, creating a dialogue between the past and the present. This synthesis of cultural elements is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves as a reminder of the richness and diversity of human experience.
Mr Silva expressly shares his gratitude to the Turkish Ambassador in Nigeria, Madame Betse Gursu (The Curator), NAYO Tropical Technology, IICD Center, and Treasures4Life AGH for their sponsorship and support at this milestone point of his career.
The exhibition, expertly curated by Beste Gursu, is not just a visual feast; it is also an intellectual journey. Silva’s works challenge viewers to reflect on their perceptions and biases, encouraging a deeper understanding of the world around them. This is particularly evident in his more experimental pieces, where he plays with form and perspective to create optical layers and thought-provoking contrasts.
“The Art of Silva” is a celebration of creativity and a testament to the power of art to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries. Imal Silva’s exhibition at the Turkish Embassy in Nigeria is a must-see for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. It is a rare opportunity to witness the work of an artist who is not afraid to push the limits of his craft and challenge the status quo.
As the exhibition continues to draw visitors, it is clear that Imal Silva has made a significant impact on the Nigerian art scene. His work, curated with finesse by Beste Gursu, not only enriches the cultural landscape but also fosters a greater appreciation for the diverse tapestry of human expression. “The Art of Silva” is indeed a fitting ode to an artist whose vision and talent continue to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. The exhibition had other activities which infused the Abuja community at extreme ends. (Read more about this in the next posts)
Engaging the Next Generation
A core aspect of this exhibition was nurturing appreciation for the arts in young minds. There was a workshop with senior high school students from several schools in Abuja, allowing students to not only experience Silva’s masterpieces firsthand but also unleash their own creative potential through guided group canvas painting exercise. The enthusiasm and raw talent on display was a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire.
Art, The Business of Art and Art Collecting
In an associated event that generated tremendous buzz, a panel discussion on “Art, The Business of Art and Art Collecting” brought together some of the most brilliant minds in the contemporary Nigerian and international art market. Gallerists, investors, corporate patrons, and curators engaged in a lively discourse, shedding light on the intricate dynamics that drive this multibillion-dollar industry. Attendees gained invaluable insights into the world of art as an investment, the significance of corporate art collections, and strategies for navigating the complex terrain of art acquisition.
Written by: Uchechukwu Daubry