Art as a Universal Language: How Obidare Hezekiah Redefines Cultural Expression
by Queenswill Bestman Dec 3, 2024
The 19th edition of the Visual Arts Exhibition Awards was a testament to the transformative power of art as a universal language, transcending cultural and linguistic barriers. Held at the Thought Pyramid Arts Centre in Abuja, Nigeria, this year’s theme, “Translating Arts into a Common Language,” celebrated the boundless ability of creativity to connect humanity. The event, organized by the Embassy of Spain in Nigeria in collaboration with the Society of Nigerian Artists, Abuja chapter (SNA), the National Gallery of Art Nigeria, and the Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, provided a platform to highlight Nigeria’s extraordinary artistic talent.
One artist who stood out amidst fierce competition was Obidare Hezekiah, a gifted visual artist from Osun State, Nigeria, whose profound work earned him the second-place prize. Hezekiah’s journey to this milestone is as inspiring as his art, rooted deeply in cultural heritage and driven by a passion for preserving untold stories.
Born in 1995, Hezekiah grew up immersed in the pottery traditions of Ipetu-Modu, Osun State, a cultural backdrop that greatly influenced his artistic path. His work, primarily rendered in acrylic and oil, transcends the canvas to narrate powerful histories and philosophies. By reimagining traditional pots into evocative forms like human heads, Hezekiah challenges conventional perceptions of utilitarian objects, elevating them to symbols of identity, memory, and cultural resilience.
Hezekiah’s creative vision has led to exhibitions across Nigeria and beyond, including prominent showcases in the USA. Each exhibition has further cemented his reputation as a powerful storyteller, weaving together the past and present to inspire the future.
The journey to the 19th Visual Arts Exhibition Awards was not without its challenges. The selection process was rigorous with over 80 applicants vying for a spot in the competition. Yet, Hezekiah’s ability to communicate profound narratives through his art resonated with the judges, earning him a coveted place among the top three winners.
While the first-place winner, Cletus Oche received an opportunity to travel and exhibit in Spain, Hezekiah and the third-place winner, Kaynan Peter Kayphas, were awarded a group exhibition at the Thought Pyramid Arts Centre. This opportunity not only celebrated their achievements but also showcased their work to a broader audience, marking another step forward in their artistic journeys.
In his interview after the awards, Hezekiah reflected on the competition’s theme, emphasizing the universal language of art. “Art transcends barriers,” he shared, “It speaks to our shared humanity, allowing us to connect and understand one another, regardless of background or culture.”
His success at the exhibition is a testament to the power of persistence, creativity, and staying true to one’s roots. Despite the logistical and emotional challenges of participating in such a competitive event, Hezekiah emerged as a beacon of inspiration, proving that dedication to one’s craft can overcome any obstacle.
The 19th Visual Arts Exhibition Awards celebrated not only individual artists like Hezekiah but also the broader potential of art to bridge cultural divides. The partnerships forged during the event—between institutions like the Embassy of Spain, SNA, and the National Gallery of Art—underscored the importance of collaboration in nurturing emerging talent and promoting art’s universal message.
For Hezekiah, this recognition is not an endpoint but a springboard for future opportunities. His work continues to invite audiences on a journey of rediscovery, urging them to see everyday objects through a new lens, enriched with cultural and historical significance.
Hezekiah’s story is a reminder that art is more than just creation—it is a language, a bridge, and a legacy. For young artists looking to make their mark, his journey offers a powerful message: embrace your roots, persevere through challenges, and use your voice to tell the stories that matter.
