The first Nigerian solo exhibition of Cameroonian painter Ajarb Bernard Ategwa opened this October at the Pacers art gallery in Lagos, Nigeria.
In the confines of their ground floor space, Pacers presents intimate snapshots of familiar environments to Africans residing in or outside Africa. Bernard’s painting series is not only a tribute to Marche non glace, a fixture of life in Douala, Cameroon, but it also interrogates the economic and social dynamics of the urban African markets. With images of market scenes and childhood homes buzzing with the colours of life, it is unsurprising that people continue to trope in to visually listen to his artistry.
Marking his first time in Africa, and first time exhibiting in his father’s land, the exhibition showcases over 6 paintings. They include vibrant compositions, and soft and subtle use of harsh brush strokes, showcasing life in African society. Even though they are mere market scenes where traders toil daily to sell their goods under sun and rain, and homes where children stay hating hair time between their parent’s laps, Bernard uses his brilliant colour techniques to lighten these dull moments.
There is a belief one has a meaningful conversation with a faceless person more than someone you meet in person. Because then, there would be no judgment, just hearing and understanding that person’s perspective on certain subjects. Bernard’s subjects may have no face because he sought to keep their identity from us, but there is much more going on. There is a sense of mystery, and demand to watch their perception of life by positioning them in the real world cultivated with local practices.
The exhibition provides a unique moment to experience, enjoy and—for those less familiar with his work—discover Ategwa’s astonishing talent and style.
Opening Reception: Friday, October 28, 2022
With music, refreshments, and chat with the artist
Exhibition Dates: October 28 – November 13, 2022
Pacers Gallery
59 Raymond Njoku St. | Ikoyi, Lagos
#310.558.3375 | Tues. – Sat. Noon to 6PM
Pacersgallery.com
For all inquiries please contact the gallery via email at [email protected]
Search their hashtag on instagram: #Pacersgallery
About the Gallery :
Based in Lagos, Nigeria, Pacers Gallery champions bright emerging talent in contemporary art. Founded in 2020 by Wunika Mukan, Pacers gallery is uniquely positioned to support its roster of artists to grow into the next stage of their careers. The gallery’s curatorial practice draws from virtual platforms to identify and select its artists, bridging the gap of accessibility for international and local artists and audiences.
Offering exciting opportunities to exhibit and engage critically in global discourse, Pacers Gallery is dedicated to expanding artist visibility and providing space for innovation, exploration and immersive exchange.
About the Artist :
Bernard Ategwa (1988, Kumba, Cameroon.), lives and works in Douala, Cameroon. He grew up in the economic capital of Douala. As a witness to the popular realities of Cameroon, he explores his society in a synchronous manner, creating life scenes centered around the marketplace, a focal meeting point of the Cameroonian population.
CONTACT PACERS GALLERY
