Osaru Obaseki: The residency outcome

 

We are delighted to announce the much-anticipated opening of the solo show Osaru Obaseki: The Residency Outcome at AKKA Project Venezia. Following a three-month stay as our inaugural artist-in-residence this year, Osaru Obaseki's journey in Venice has been nothing short of transformative.

During her residency, Osaru, a Nigerian artist of immense talent, delved deep into the rich cultural tapestry of Venice. Immersing herself in the city's vibrant art scene, she drew inspiration from some of its most illustrious collections, including the renowned Gallerie dell'Accademia, the Museo Correr and the Natural History Museum. This encounter with the lagoon's artistic heritage ignited Osaru's creativity, infusing her work with new depths of expression and meaning.

Above all, Osaru had the chance to actively engage with the local community, participating in events such as the presentation of the book "African Venice" with Professor Shaul Bassi. Through this experience, she embarked on a journey of rediscovery, uncovering and delving into the often-overlooked history and traditions of Venice, particularly those intertwined with Africa and Benin City, where Osaru comes from. This exploration extended to the city's unique geography, as Osaru found resonance and inspiration in the lagoon's ethereal beauty and mystical allure.

A pivotal aspect of Osaru's residency was the collaboration with Fondazione Berengo, in Murano, where she had the privilege of working alongside master glassmakers in their storied furnaces. This partnership provided Osaru with a platform to experiment with Murano glass, a material synonymous with Venetian craftsmanship and tradition, culminating with Osaru's participation in the prestigious international show, Glasstress 8½, a major milestone in the artist's career. Her work is showcased alongside renowned artists such as Ai Weiwei, marking a momentous achievement and further solidifying her position in the global art scene. 

The final and stunning result of Osaru Obaseki Residency Program at AKKA Project Venice is a collection of artworks that seamlessly integrate Venetian and African traditions, and Murano glass into her distinctive style, ranging from evocative canvas paintings to breathtaking sculptures. 

As we unveil the culmination of Osaru Obaseki's residency, we invite you to join us in celebrating her artistic journey and the profound impact of her time in Venice. Through her work, Osaru not only pays homage to the city's rich artistic heritage but also adds a new chapter to its ongoing narrative, one that bridges continents and cultures in a symphony of creativity and expression.