Art x Adẹ

Every meaningful journey begins with a single step. The path before us may be narrow, uneven, and uncertain, but it is not the smoothness of the road that determines our destination—it is the courage to keep moving. The setting sun is not merely an ending; it is a reminder that every day concludes with the promise of another dawn. Brick by brick, step by step, we build our future through the choices we make today. The destination belongs not to those who wait for perfect roads, but to those who walk faithfully, even when the horizon seems distant. May we never be discouraged by the length of the journey. Every step taken with hope is a victory, and every obstacle overcome becomes another brick in the path to a brighter tomorrow.

The story of Nigeria's leadership succession often reminds me of the biblical account of King Rehoboam, the son and successor of King Solomon, as recorded in 1 Kings 12:14 and 2 Chronicles 10:14. Ignoring the counsel of the older, wiser advisers who had served his father faithfully, Rehoboam chose instead to listen to the reckless advice of his young contemporaries.  He arrogantly declared to the people: "My father made your yoke heavy; I will make it even heavier. My father scourged you with whips; I will scourge you with scorpions." Those words proved disastrous. Instead of strengthening the kingdom he inherited, Rehoboam fractured it. The northern tribes rebelled, and the once-united kingdom of Israel was divided in two. History repeatedly teaches the same lesson: leadership is not sustained by arrogance, intimidation, or the desire to appear stronger than one's predecessor. It flourishes through humility, wisdom, and a willingness to listen. A nation d...

Inspired by a family photograph, this painting celebrates the enduring environmental legacy of my senior brother, Retired Justice Michael Medupin. Many decades ago, he planted coconut palm seedlings throughout several neighbourhoods of Ogidi. Today, those seedlings have matured into majestic trees that define the landscape and enrich the community. While I have deliberately exaggerated the height and abundance of the palms for artistic effect, the painting reflects a genuine transformation of the environment. It is my tribute to a man whose foresight, love for nature, and quiet service have left a living legacy for future generations. It reminds us that the greatest monuments are not always built in stone—they can also take root in the earth and flourish through time. This painting has significance beyond my family. It documents a local environmental history and honours an act of community-minded stewardship that deserves to be remembered. It is both a work of art and a v...