Wahab Saheed: On This Field of Green

19 Oct-19 Nov 2022

PV 19 Oct 2022, 6-9pm

Overview

In his first London solo exhibition, Wahab Saheed uses portraiture to explore notions of nationality and identity. On This Field of Green is founded in Saheed’s own relationship to his native Nigeria. The colour green appears as the constant thread that weaves throughout this body of work, framing each figure in bright and vivid tones. As the key colour in the Nigerian flag, green symbolises the wealth and richness of the country’s natural resources. For Saheed, the colour green also carries significance in the context of mass migration, as young Nigerians leave their country to search for greener pastures abroad.

With his exhibition, Saheed considers the phenomenon of japa. In the Yoruba language, japa is a slang term that means “to flee” and it summarises the trend among young Nigerians who choose to migrate to Europe or North America. The artist himself has had to say goodbye to many friends who have left the country with little notice. Saheed’s exhibition, however, focuses on the beauties of his home environment, examining what might encourage a person to stay in Nigeria. The artist’s latest body of work aims to shed a positive light on his country, prompting a younger generation to rethink their perspective of home.

Artists