Ulli Beier Society Announces Fourth Edition of Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture

 ULLI BEIER SOCIETY ANNOUNCES FOURTH EDITION OF BUSARI AGBOLADE MEMORIAL LECTURE

The Ulli Beier Society  has announced the fourth edition of the Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture, a significant event celebrating the intersection of art and culture. 

The upcoming lecture, themed "The Impact of Atelier Upon 21st Century Art: Dreamscapes in the Works of Abayomi Barber," is scheduled to take place on Saturday, July 27th, 2024. This year's guest artist and lecturer is the esteemed Toyin Alade, a fellow of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA).

Established to honor the legacy of the late Busari Agbolade, the Memorial Lecture series aims to foster creativity and cultural appreciation through the arts. Each edition has explored different artistic themes and their contributions to cultural heritage, featuring renowned artists and scholars.

The inaugural edition, held on May 29th, 2021, was themed "Extending Creative Legacy" and featured Murthada Lawal as the guest artist and lecturer. Lawal's insightful discourse set the tone for the lecture series, emphasizing the importance of preserving and advancing creative traditions.

Following the success of the first edition, the second lecture took place on July 30th, 2022, with the theme "The Importance of Drawing and Painting in Writing." 

Kola Akintola and Gbenga Akintayo, both acclaimed artists, led an engaging session that highlighted the symbiotic relationship between visual arts and literary expression.

The third edition, themed "Dance as an Expression of Culture," was held on July 29th, 2023. 

Christopher Emmanuel, a distinguished dancer and choreographer, captivated the audience with his dynamic presentation on the cultural significance of dance and its role in storytelling and community building.

This year's lecture promises to be equally enlightening, with Toyin Alade delving into the profound impact of atelier practices on contemporary art. Alade will explore the dreamlike quality of Abayomi Barber's works, offering a unique perspective on the creative process and artistic innovation.

The Ulli Beier Society remains committed to promoting artistic dialogue and education through the Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture series. By bringing together artists, scholars, and art enthusiasts, the Society aims to create a vibrant platform for cultural exchange and inspiration.

Wole Adedoyin, Coordinator of the Ulli Beier Society, expressed his excitement about the upcoming lecture, stating, "We are thrilled to have Toyin Alade as our guest artist and lecturer this year. His expertise and insights will undoubtedly enrich our understanding of modern art and its cultural implications."

The fourth edition of the Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture is open to the public, and the Ulli Beier Society encourages all art lovers to attend. 

The event will be held at the Society's headquarters, with additional details and registration information available on their official website.

As the date approaches, the Ulli Beier Society looks forward to another successful event that honors the spirit of Busari Agbolade and continues to inspire creative and cultural appreciation among its participants.

Toyin Alade to Headline Fourth Edition of Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture

 TOYIN ALADE TO HEADLINE FOURTH EDITION OF BUSARI AGBOLADE MEMORIAL LECTURE

The Ibadan Book Club (IBC), in conjunction with the Ulli Beier Society, have announced the Fourth Edition of the Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture, set to take place on July 27th, 2024. Renowned artist Mr. Toyin Alade will headline the event, which will be held at the Oyo State Library Board, opposite Cocoa House, Ibadan, at 12 PM.

In a statement issued by Wole Adedoyin, Founder of the Ibadan Book Club, it was revealed that Mr. Toyin Alade would be delivering a lecture on the theme, “The Impact of Atelier Upon 21st Century Art. Dreamscapes in the Works of Abayomi Barber.” This year's edition promises to be an enlightening and inspiring event, celebrating the intersection of art, culture, and education.

The Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture series was established to honor the legacy of the late Busari Agbolade. It aims to foster creativity and cultural appreciation through the arts. Each edition has explored different artistic themes and their contributions to cultural heritage, featuring renowned artists and scholars who have significantly impacted their fields.

Mr. Toyin Alade is a celebrated artist known for his innovative approach to contemporary art. His works often explore the boundaries of traditional and modern art forms, creating a unique blend that resonates with a wide audience. His lecture will delve into the influence of the atelier, or artist's studio, on 21st-century art, highlighting the dreamscapes in the works of the illustrious artist Abayomi Barber.

The event is expected to attract art enthusiasts, scholars, and the general public, providing an opportunity to engage with Mr. Alade's insights and perspectives on modern art practices. Attendees will have the chance to participate in a Q&A session, allowing for an interactive and enriching experience.

Wole Adedoyin emphasized the importance of the lecture series in promoting cultural heritage and artistic expression. "The Busari Agbolade Memorial Lecture is a platform that brings together artists, scholars, and the community to celebrate and explore the rich cultural tapestry of our society. We are honored to have Mr. Toyin Alade headline this year's edition," he said.

MEET OUR GUEST ARTIST/GUEST SPEAKER

Toyin Alade is a renowned Nigerian artist celebrated for his captivating paintings that seamlessly blend realism, surrealism, and historical themes. Born in 1961, Alade embarked on his artistic journey in 1980 at the prestigious Abayomi Barber School of Thought. Over the years, he has participated in numerous joint exhibitions and garnered several awards, including second prize in a national art competition organized by Rank Xerox in the 1990s.

Alade's artwork often delves into Yoruba history, particularly the wars, earning him acclaim for both cultural significance and technical prowess.

 Self-employed since 1985, he currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the Abayomi Barber School of Thought (ABTS). His works are cherished in private collections both in Nigeria and abroad, attesting to his immense talent and dedication to his craft. Additionally, Alade is a distinguished fellow of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA).

PROFILE OF LATE BUSARI OLANIYI AGBOLADE

Busari Olaniyi Agbolade, a professional painter and steel fabricator, was born on July 13, 1948. He attended A.U.D Primary School in Ila Orangun from 1955 to 1960 and L.A Secondary School in Ila Orangun from 1961 to 1963. He later apprenticed at Adegoke Metal Construction Company from 1965 to 1967.

Between 1969 and 1975, Agbolade worked with Niger West Construction Company, Niger Dam Authority, and Uren Construction Engineering Company. In 1976, he studied aluminum and copper artistic panel beating under Yekini Agboola, an apprentice to Chief Ashiru Olatunde of the Osogbo School.

In 1980, he joined the Abayomi Barber School of Thought at the University of Lagos to study painting. Agbolade worked at the University of Lagos from 1980 until he resigned in 1993 to pursue a full-time career as an artist.

Elder Busari Olaniyi Agbolade participated in numerous exhibitions, including the Barber School Exhibition sponsored by N.C.A.C in 1984, Benue State Art Exhibition in 1985, Lagos State Art Council in 1986, “Man in Focus” exhibition by the Federal Department of Culture in 1986, an exhibition of paintings and batiks by three Nigerian artists in Dakar, Senegal in 1987, and an exhibition of paintings, batiks, carvings, and ceramics by six Nigerian artists with 843 Studio Gallery in East New York, USA from October to December 1988. He also exhibited with the Lagos State Chapter of the Society of Nigerian Artists (S.N.A.) annually from 1991 to 2009.

Some of Elder Busari Olaniyi Agbolade’s notable commissioned works include portraits of HRH Aholu Menu Toyi, Akran of Badagry, Orangun of Ila, Oba William Adetona Ayeni, and other prominent Nigerians both at home and abroad. His painting "Mother and Child" was commissioned by 843 Studio Gallery in New York, USA.

His paintings can be viewed at Electronic Exhibition of Mr. Busari Olaniyi Agbolade's Painting Works. Before his death, Elder Busari Olaniyi Agbolade was the Chairman of the AZA Artists and Writers Movement.

Ibadan Book Club Congratulates New Olubadan of Ibadan

 

IBADAN BOOK CLUB CONGRATULATES NEW OLUBADAN OF IBADAN

 

The Ibadan Book Club, a prominent literary organization in the city, extends its heartfelt congratulations to Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on his coronation as the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadan. The coronation ceremony, which took place yesterday, marks a significant milestone in the history of Ibadan and the Yoruba culture.

In a statement issued by the Founder of the Ibadan Book Club, Wole Adedoyin, the club expressed its admiration for the new Olubadan's dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of Ibadan. “We are delighted to celebrate this momentous occasion with His Royal Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin. His ascension to the throne is a testament to his lifelong commitment to our traditions and values,” Adedoyin stated.

The Ibadan Book Club has been an active participant in the cultural and intellectual development of Ibadan, hosting numerous literary events, book readings, and discussions that have enriched the city's literary landscape. The club believes that the new Olubadan's reign will bring a renewed focus on education and cultural preservation.

Wole Adedoyin highlighted the importance of the Olubadan’s role in fostering a literate and informed society. “The Olubadan of Ibadan has always been a pivotal figure in our community. We look forward to collaborating with His Royal Majesty on initiatives that promote literacy, education, and the appreciation of our rich cultural heritage,” he said.

The club's members have also expressed their excitement about the new Olubadan’s vision for Ibadan. They believe that his leadership will inspire a new generation of readers, writers, and cultural enthusiasts. “Oba Owolabi Olakulehin’s passion for our history and culture is truly inspiring. We are confident that his reign will usher in a new era of intellectual and cultural prosperity,” one member remarked.

In addition to its congratulations, the Ibadan Book Club reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Olubadan in his efforts to enhance the educational landscape of Ibadan. The club plans to organize a series of events and programs aimed at promoting reading and learning among the youth of the city.

Wole Adedoyin emphasized the significance of the Olubadan's support for educational initiatives. “We are eager to work closely with His Royal Majesty to create opportunities for young people to engage with literature and learning. Together, we can build a brighter future for Ibadan,” he added.

The Ibadan Book Club's congratulatory message also highlighted the historical importance of the Olubadan throne and its role in uniting the people of Ibadan. The club expressed its hope that Oba Owolabi Olakulehin’s reign will continue to foster peace, unity, and progress in the city.