The beauty of human memories, the richness of African traditions and the emotional connections that bind generations take centre stage as mixed-media artist Ibeme Laurina unveils her latest exhibition, Fragments of Time, at Art Place Lagos, Opebi, Ikeja.
The exhibition, which opened on Thursday, October 15, and runs until Monday, October 19, 2026, offers art enthusiasts an opportunity to experience Laurina’s exploration of life, identity and cultural heritage through her creative practice in painting, drawing and mixed media.
With an artistic approach rooted in visual storytelling, Laurina presents works that celebrate the ordinary yet meaningful experiences that shape human existence. Her compositions capture the warmth of family relationships, the innocence of childhood, the strength of motherhood and the enduring influence of African cultural traditions.
The exhibition’s title, Fragments of Time, speaks to the idea that life is a collection of moments, each carrying memories, emotions and experiences that contribute to the larger story of human existence.
Through her artistic interpretations, Laurina invites viewers to revisit familiar experiences while reflecting on the importance of preserving the stories and traditions that connect the past with the present.
What makes Fragments of Time particularly engaging is its focus on the beauty found in everyday life.
Rather than concentrating solely on extraordinary events, the artworks draw attention to simple human experiences that often carry deep emotional meaning.
Among the compositions are images of children sharing laughter, an elderly man seated with a dog, women participating in traditional dance and a mother surrounded by her children.
Another captivating scene portrays an older woman surrounded by younger listeners, illuminated by the warm glow of a lantern. The image evokes the longstanding African tradition of oral storytelling, through which history, values and cultural knowledge are passed from one generation to another.
These visual narratives create a sense of familiarity while encouraging viewers to appreciate experiences that might otherwise be overlooked.
Laurina’s use of colour, expressive figures and carefully developed compositions adds emotional depth to the subjects, creating artworks that communicate beyond their immediate visual appearance.
As an artist working across painting, drawing and mixed media, Laurina explores different forms of expression to communicate her creative ideas.
Her multidisciplinary practice allows her to approach subjects through a combination of visual techniques, using artistic expression to examine themes of identity, belonging, remembrance and cultural continuity.
The exhibition reflects the ability of contemporary African artists to draw inspiration from familiar cultural experiences while developing personal approaches to storytelling.
In Fragments of Time, art becomes more than an aesthetic experience. It serves as a means of documenting emotions, celebrating relationships and reflecting on the experiences that influence individuals and communities.
Beyond its exploration of personal memories, the exhibition draws attention to the importance of African heritage and the traditions that continue to shape society.
Scenes of communal gatherings, traditional attire, dance and intergenerational relationships reflect aspects of cultural life that remain relevant despite social change.
Through these representations, Laurina’s work encourages audiences to recognise the value of cultural preservation and the role of artistic expression in keeping collective memories alive.
The exhibition also highlights how contemporary visual art can create connections between generations, offering younger audiences an opportunity to engage with familiar traditions through new artistic perspectives.
Photographs from the gallery show visitors observing the displayed artworks, with some gathering in conversation around the collection.
The exhibition provides a setting for art collectors, creative professionals, students and cultural enthusiasts to engage with Laurina’s work and explore the themes presented in her compositions.
At a time when Lagos continues to provide an important platform for contemporary artistic expression, exhibitions such as Fragments of Time contribute to the city’s cultural landscape by creating opportunities for artists to share their perspectives with wider audiences.
For visitors, the experience offers both visual enjoyment and an invitation to reflect on the personal memories and cultural experiences that shape their understanding of the world.
With Fragments of Time continuing until Monday, October 19, members of the public have an opportunity to experience the collection at Art Place Lagos, located at 1, Jo Babs Close, Opebi, Ikeja.
The exhibition offers a reminder that while time moves forward, the experiences that define people’s lives can continue to exist through memory, culture and creative expression.
Through painting, drawing and mixed-media artistry, Ibeme Laurina presents an exploration of the moments that make life meaningful, inviting audiences to appreciate the beauty of the past while recognising its connection to the present.
Credit: Guardian
