The fourth edition of journalist and artist, Evelyn Osagie’s art-to-the-street project, ‘Words Meet Images’ (WMI) will hold on Valentine’s Day at Diamond Mine School, Ogba, Lagos.
Themed ‘Embers of Love’, it is inspired by Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka. It will feature poetry, drama, music and photo exhibition.
Speaking about the show, the ‘Journartist’ known as Evelyn D’Poet said, “In the spirit of Valentine’s, we are adding our voice to the universal message of love and unity. This is in addition to rekindling art appreciation on the street – in children and adults alike. The displays will showcase how art can beautify our environment and world. It is driven by conversation and the need to preserve the environment.”
She added that this edition’s play she wrote herself is entitled ‘Kitchen Revolution’. It will be performed by WMI cast drawn from different strata of the society, including market women in her human installation.
“The play is inspired by Professor Wole Soyinka. I was at a briefing where he, reacting to insecurity issues and ‘Amotekun’, said: ‘Hunger is real! Poverty is real! It’s very much with us and reaching a critical mass. Amotekun is only part of the story. We should start thinking of ‘Soup Kitchen’ as obtained in other parts of the world’.
“My art show encourages us to pursue peaceful means of resolving our differences. If we forget the reason why we must fight for peace and unity in our land, let art, nature, our children and animals remind us,” she said.
The journalist with The Nation newspaper added that the event is “a melting pot that seeks to promote the appreciation of the arts, the environment and communality. My performances and exhibition are, therefore, meant to remind us of the need for peace.”
Previous editions of ‘Words Meet Images’ happened in Agege, Somolu and Isolo. Over 200 pupils and their parents will attend this year’s Valentine’s edition. The poetry and music concert will feature acts aged 12 to 60 including Chidindu Okorie and the WMI drama group.
The exhibition comprises human installation using market women, traditional wares and furniture to create a nostalgic local milieu.
