Yinka Ilori, the East London-based designer, will hold a solo exhibition in Lagos titled: ‘This is Where it Started’ at ‘a whitespace’ gallery from October 24 to November 3. The installation-type exhibition will host a private view on October 23. It is his first presentation of new work since his solo exhibition in Stockholm.
Yinka Ilori
‘This is Where it Started’ continues Ilori’s use of Yoruba parables as a starting point for his work, and this series sees his work taking on a new, richer journey through an installation that is experiential.
During the two-week exhibition, which coincides with Lagos Fashion and Design Week, Ilori will journey back to the oral traditions, using sounds, musical instruments, form and all the richness of the Yoruba culture. Those who attend will be given the opportunity to interact with the captivating pieces of furniture on show at the exhibition.
‘This is Where it Started’ is supported by the Arts Council England, the British Council through the Artists international development fund and A Whitespace Creative Agency and will open at a whitespace in Ikoyi, Lagos.
Ilori holds a BA (Hons.) degree in furniture and product design from London Metropolitan University and has since specialised in up-cycling vintage furniture inspired by traditional Nigerian parables and African fabrics that he grew up with as a child. Each piece of furniture he up-cycles tells a meaningful, yet humorous, story which can be shared with people throughout the world.
His design approach starts with the dismantling of the original components, which he then re-assembles into a new piece ready for use again. Deeply aware and passionately against the unnecessary waste of modern consumer societies in the western world, Ilori also happily accepts unwanted or damaged furniture from private individuals, to save, rehabilitate and beautify them for future use, giving them a hint of Yinka Ilori’s signature Nigerian parables.
The artist has exhibited around the world from Milan to Germany, New York, Sweden, London, and now preparing for this his third solo exhibition.
He has been featured in Vogue, London Metro, Evening Standard, Ok Nigeria, Shoreditch Design Triangle, Vox Africa, Timeout London, Dezeen and many other publications and online portals.
