Lot 9
  • 9

Abiodun Olaku

Estimate
6,000 - 9,000 GBP
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Description

  • Abiodun Olaku
  • Heavenly Steps
  • signed and dated 1995 (lower right)
  • oil on canvas
  • 84.25 by 68cm., 33 by 26¾in.
  • Painted in 1995

Provenance

Acquired from Hon. Habeeb Fasinro, Fenchurch Gallery, Onikan, Nigeria 

Condition

The canvas is unlined with a slightly loose frame. Examinations under UV shows no evidence of retouch or repair. Overall, the work appears to be in very good condition.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Heavenly Steps is an oil painting by Nigerian artist Abiodun Olaku of a traditional dance. In this painting, the viewer is given a momentary glance at the dancer in the midst of a ceremonial performance. The smooth brushstrokes of layered warm colours highlight the fleeting heated nature of the moment.

In his body of work, Olaku typically paints cities in quiet moments of the night or dawn. Olaku alternates between modern architecture, slum dwellings, and rural settings in Nigeria. Exploring multi-dimensional narratives, Olaku’s paintings are a thoughtful reflection on the movements of everyday Nigerian people.

As a young child, Olaku studied art at the Baptist Academy, and later trained at the Yaba Collage of Technology. There he learned under the instruction and mentorship of Prof Yusuf Grillo, Kolade Oshinowo, and the late Dr. Isiaka Osunde.