Samson Bakare: Let this be a sign | Dorothy Circus London

March 9–April 8, 2023 | London, United Kingdom

Dorothy Circus Gallery, London, is proud to present the highly anticipated solo exhibition of Nigerian artist, painter, and sculptor Samson Bakare. The opening of this exhibition is a significant moment for the contemporary African art scene, as it challenges the status quo and provides an opportunity for the black population to reclaim its position in the future.

"Let this be a Sign" consists of a body of 15 brand-new works, including paintings, sculptures, and (pictorial) installations, with a surprising and evocative visual impact.

His artworks capture the gaze and thought of viewers, as they become authors of a new writing of the Black Cultural Figuration. Bakare makes use of a flamboyant, floral-inspired palette, as he investigates the psychological effects of color in reference to the traditional stereotypes associated with its use and enjoyment according to gender. Bakare’s style has been influenced by Pop Art, Impressionism, Dadaism, comics, and manga, producing a narrative pictorial result of great impact.

Green pastures 1, 2022, Acrylic On Canvas, 182.88 x 152.4 cm | Courtesy of Dorothy Circus

Bakare takes us on an investigation into the psychological effects of colour, in opposition to the traditional stereotypes associated with its use and enjoyment according to gender, in a reference to the laws of potential differences and challenging the status quo, with this audacious chromatic game.

The study of colour in Bakare's art has its roots in Pop Art as well as Impressionism and Dadaism, and it also relates to comics and manga, which the artist admires and regards as a source of inspiration for young artists.