The very first sketch of “Ada” dates back to the first visit to Venice by Osaru Obaseki in September 2023, but it assumed its final form only at the beginning of the residency program in February 2024. As the artist delicately crafted the canvas, she found herself immersed in a profound journey of emotional discovery. Each stroke of her brush carried with it a piece of her own introspection, a reflection of personal experiences woven into the very fabric of the canvas. Ada, to Osaru, is more than just a subject; she embodied the depth and complexity of the human condition. In this woman portrayal, she sought to capture the raw essence of loss and resilience, to depict the intricate interplay between sorrow and renewal.

As Ada took form on the canvas, she became a vessel for Obaseki's own emotions, a conduit through which she navigated the tumultuous terrain of grief and healing. The symbolism embedded within the painting - the sturdy bricks representing resilience, the horizontal lines evoking a sense of belonging - spoke volumes about her own journey and struggles. Through this figure’s silent presence, the artist invites the viewer to join her in this sacred space of contemplation, where emotions run deep and the human spirit is laid bare.

With each brushstroke, Obaseki strove not just to portray Ada, but to capture the essence of what it means to be human, to grapple with loss, to find solace in the midst of pain, and to emerge stronger, albeit scarred, on the other side. Through this canvas, Osaru hoped to offer a glimpse into the complexities of our shared humanity, inviting the viewer to delve deeper into their own emotional landscapes and find resonance within the depths of the painting.