Ota and Badagry: A Journey Through Architecture and Art
Relocating to Ota, Ogun State, in 2016 immersed me in a vibrant landscape of cultural and historical depth. This passion sparked the creation of the Ota Art Fair in 2018, which I proudly co-organized alongside Dr. Adeola Balogun of Yaba Collect of Technology, the late Mr. Olayemi Bello of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, and my dear friend, the late Mr. Da-Gold. Together, we invited artists to explore the town, from the ancient Olota palace to historic quarters, capturing its architecture and atmosphere through the lens. Those explorations inspired a rich collection of paintings, drawings, and photographs exhibited at the Ota Recreation Center. Graced by the presence of the Olota of Ota and esteemed art patron Omoba Yemisi Shilon, the event was celebrated as a resounding success.
That journey expanded during my PhD research into the historic town of Badagry. Immersive field visits to major landmarks, including the palace of the Akran of Badagry, Nigeria’s oldest church, and the haunting Point of No Return, revealed sites carrying profound historical weight. Each landmark embodies enduring narratives of leadership, faith, suffering, resilience, and cultural continuity.
These transformative experiences birthed my new drawing series, "Ota and Badagry: A Journey Through Architecture and Art" This body of work reflects the architectural heritage of both towns, weaving Ota’s dynamic cultural identity with Badagry’s solemn historical gravitas. Through these drawings, I aim to preserve memory, celebrate heritage, and invite deep reflection on the intersections of past and present.
Exploring related themes such as Nigerian architectural history and the role of art as a bridge between tradition and modernity offers an equally enriching perspective on this journey.
Link to the drawing series https://benonuorah.com/osondu/ota-badagry.php