My installation represents how we find ourselves after the years of pandemic, to be rebuilt like the bricks held close by the wool thread. Rubble then. destroyed but elegant. Messy but beautiful. And the thread for the recovery. Pastel colors refer to an idea of familiarity and fragility together. The matter is a refractory stone, therefore inert to the heat and seen the times it seemed to me suitable, and light as the consistency of the clouds, ephemeral, sfldabile. Stand by of being. Destroyed to be rebuilt together. New beings present in their new fragile essence. With new knowledge acquired. And the yarn to start over and rebuild. Reconnect.

Danfo, my latest body of work, is a tribute to the iconic commercial buses that traverse the bustling city of Lagos. These buses are more than just a mode of transportation, they are a microcosm of Lagos diverse and vibrant culture. The Danfo buses are a lifeline for many, providing an affordable and convenient mode of transportation through the labyrinthine streets and major roads. Despite the challenges faced by Danfo buses, from engine breakdowns to altercations between passengers, they remain an essential part of the hustle and bustle of Lagos city.

Through my art, I aim to capture the essence of the Danfo experience, from the pre-dawn hustle of commuters rushing to catch the first ride of the day to the hectic traffic jams that often plague Lagos congested roads. I use a combination of visual and aromatic elements, using Palm oil and charcoal on canvas to create a unique sensory experience that evokes the sights and smells of the bustling city. In this body of work, I explore the psychological and emotional experiences of Danfo drivers and conductors, who are often overlooked in the rush to get to our respective destinations. Delving deep into the psychological situation the Danfo drivers are subjected to, they are oblivious of the time loop effect that dominates their lives. Such a paradox that one who is constantly moving is also in a state of stagnancy, basically for the commuters sake. Through my art, I hope to honor their sacrifice and shed light on the psychological toll of this demanding profession.

Using my signature blend of visual and aromatic art, I create works that capture the vibrancy and energy of Lagos streets. I use Palm oil and charcoal on canvas to evoke the earthy, organic textures of the Danfo buses and their surroundings. The use of charcoal gives a dark, smoky feel to the paintings, capturing the gritty reality of Lagos streets. The addition of Palm oil not only provides a unique aroma to the works, but it also symbolizes the resilience and endurance of the Danfo drivers and their attachment to their colorful buses in a chaotic world. My goal is to capture the essence of this city and the spirit of the Danfo buses, weaving together the sights, sounds, and smells of this chaotic world into a rich tapestry of sensory experience.

My hope is that through my art, I can bring attention to the importance of the Danfo buses in Lagos urban landscape and pay tribute to the hardworking individuals who keep the city moving.

“The time loop effect refers to the phenomenon of feeling stuck in a repetitive cycle, where events seem to repeat themselves over and over again without any progress or change. This can cause a sense of stagnation and frustration, as if one is constantly moving but never really getting anywhere. In the context of the artist statement provided, the Danfo drivers may experience this time loop effect as they repeatedly drive the same routes, encountering the same challenges and obstacles, without any significant changes or progress in their lives”.