The Centre for Contemporary Art, Lagos has opened the exhibition titled ‘Play and Boundaries: The Lines That Connect Us.’ The show marks the 16th anniversary of the CCA Lagos, a research-oriented art centre that promotes the knowledge of arts and culture while strengthening ties within artists in Nigeria and beyond.
‘Play and Boundaries: The Lines That Connect Us’ is the first solo show from the artist Lovelyn Tijesunimi-Israel. The exhibition draws from Tijesunimi-Israel’s research into the role that engagement in play and boundary setting has in the process of meaning-making. Her work prompts reflection on the blurred lines between personal desires and societal norms, inviting viewers to ponder the significance of establishing, acknowledging, and sometimes challenging boundaries.
The opening event invites Tijesunimi-Israel into dialogue with Clinical Psychologist and Writer Aanu Jide-Ojo on art, play, vulnerability, and healing.
Lovelyn Tijesunimi-Israel is a self-taught artist from Nigeria, with a discipline in Computer Science, having spent three years as a programmer before pursuing a career in the arts. Her current artistic approach is one of optimism and an interest in painting as a form of visual therapy for those, especially women, dealing with traumatic experiences. Tijesunimi-Israel is a survivor of mental trauma from previous sexual abuse and undiagnosed ADHD. Art has become a medium for her to examine her traumatic memories and work towards a place of healing.
Aanu Jide-Ojo is a writer, clinical psychologist, and founder of UsTherapy, a resource platform dedicated to helping young professionals navigate their mental health and making mental health support accessible through psychotherapy, policy, research, and education. Through her work, she merges intersectionality with client care to enable access for everyone and create safe spaces for healing, openness, and vulnerability in healthy ways.
The show which is currently mounted at Goethe Institut in Victoria Island runs till January 31st, 2024.
