Oluwatoyosi 
In a landmark event for the Nigerian art scene, Gemini Arts Gallery partnered with Afropolis for the 2024 Afropolis Lagos Festival, held from October 26 to November 3, 2024, at the J.K. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Onikan, Lagos.
The Fusion of Art and Culture
As co-curator of The Mosaic, Gemini Arts Gallery played a pivotal role in blending contemporary art with traditional African heritage. The gallery’s participation was highlighted in an announcement by Afropolis on Instagram:
"We are thrilled to have Gemini Arts Gallery (@geminiartsdeals) as the co-curator of The Mosaic at @afropolis_ 2024."
The festival showcased a diverse range of artistic expressions, including visual arts, music, dance, and panel discussions, reflecting the vibrant cultural tapestry of Lagos.
Spotlight on Ayoola Gbolahan
A standout feature of Gemini Arts Gallery’s involvement was the exhibition of works by renowned artist Ayoola Gbolahan. His pieces, celebrated for their profound exploration of African identity and heritage, were on display throughout the festival. The gallery invited art enthusiasts with the message:
"UNLEASH THE ART! Join us at Afropolis Lagos 2024! Featuring Ayoola Gbolahan's stunning works Oct 26 - Nov 3rd | J.Randle Center, Onikan, Lagos Island."
Unraveling Knots of Heritage and History
In collaboration with curator Mathew Oyedele, Gemini Arts Gallery presented the exhibition “Unraveling Knots of Heritage and History”. This exhibition delved into the complexities of African cultural heritage, featuring artist talks with luminaries such as Muraina Oyelami and Gbolahan Ayoola. Moderated by Olushola O. Olajobi, the discussions emphasized the urgency of preserving and interpreting African history through art.
A Testament to Collaboration
The success of the 2024 Afropolis Lagos Festival underscored the power of collaboration. Founder of QDance Centre and initiator of the festival, Qudus Onikeku, highlighted the importance of partnerships, noting the involvement of various brands and the Lagos State Government in establishing pavilions such as the Vibe Stage, Groove Stage, Film Lab, and Gemini Gallery.
Looking Ahead
The partnership between Gemini Arts Gallery and Afropolis has set a precedent for future collaborations, aiming to further enrich the cultural landscape of Lagos and beyond. As the festival continues to evolve, it promises to remain a beacon for artistic innovation and cultural celebration.
For more information on upcoming events and exhibitions, visit geminiar27.com and follow Gemini Arts Gallery’s social media channels.
For those who missed the exhibition, select works from “iLÀ” are available for viewing by appointment at Gemini Arts Gallery. Please contact us to schedule a visit.
