DENNIS OSADEBE

We are all born curious. Growing up, we ask questions to access certain information we want to understand and indulge as we become older. This is part of the critical process of development and moulds us into the sentient beings we are today. However, what often happens as we get older and adapt to the norms of society is that we stop asking questions. We lose our sense of curiosity and get comfortable in the silence of not taking action, merely accepting answers and thereby subconsciously agreeing to them.

Dennis Osadebe’s, Hope is Action, is a piece that asks us to return to our own childlike behaviour of questioning through a visual representation as simple as raising a hand as we use to as kids in the classroom. This is the piece that portrays questioning as a powerful action, bilaterally rooted in hope. Firstly, because questions are often asked when we are in need of hope, and secondly, because asking questions creates hope and possible change for future generations. It’s our way of offering resistance while rising up for what we believe in.

By exploring this bold gesture of rising up, Osadebe ignites a consideration towards a new generation, continuing to use this approach to create a future in which we will continue to ask vital questions, and as a result - create a future to hope for.

Osadebe takes history and makes it relevant to this generation. Similarly, he urges us to take history and innovate it for ourselves through creating a new language, a new way of doing and living. Because no one else is going to do it for us.

Known for his bold and fearless use of colour, this mixed media artist from Lagos is recognized as the leader of Neo African Art, as he challenges perceptions around art and what that would look like to the viewer. His work is a continuing investigation of the relationship between the traditional and the contemporary, with Africa at its forefront. Therefore, it’s no surprise that he challenges the approach to bronze. Bronze in itself being the nod to history is modernised and adapted to Osadebe’s approach - lending itself to a new world and new vision stature.

Like in all of the artists’ pieces, every element is considered and tactically implemented. From the shirt blowing in the wind to the confidence in the risen hand, this piece captures the bravery in the action of speaking up. While staying true to his bold pallets, this bronze, an Osadebe original, not only inspires, but from the surface, quite literally, shines of hope.

Hope is Action is revolutionary in its purpose - to serve as a reminder to never stop asking vital questions. Like the artist, this piece stands for equality and challenges us to look for change, if not create it ourselves.

Throughout history, our cultures and nations have had to face numerous challenges, and chances are that we will probably face many more going forward. However, as we age, live, and navigate through the many complex conversations in life - we need to remind ourselves that the work is never done. Questions need to be asked, action needs to be taken, hope needs to be addressed.

Osadebe responds by saying that curiosity is all we need; and that it’s enough to cause a whole society to stop and think. If we want change, we must start asking questions. And if we want hope, we must keep our curiosity - because those who do are the ones who lead to change.

When was the last time you asked a question worth hoping for?