Successful AER resident, Deborah Obanla, shares letter of motivation for Guest Artist Space (G.A.S.) Foundation residency
- Written byPost-Grad Community
- Published date 16 March 2022
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Deborah Obanla, MA Design for Art Direction alumni from LCC is 1 of 2 artists to be selected for the AER residency at Guest Artist Space (G.A.S.) Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to facilitating international cultural exchange, located in Nigeria
Set up by Professor Lucy Orta UAL Chair of Art for the Environment - Centre for Sustainable Fashion in 2015, The Art for the Environment International Artist Residency Programme (AER) provides UAL graduates with the exceptional opportunity to apply for short residencies at one of our internationally renowned host institutions, to explore concerns that define the 21st century – biodiversity, environmental sustainability, social economy, and human rights.
Read Deborah's successful proposal
To the members of the selection committee,
I’m very interested in both the AER Residency and G.A.S. Fellowship and would be grateful to be considered for either one. I recently earned my masters in art direction from UAL and hope to pursue a PhD, using my work during this program as a starting point.
Ultimately my goal is a full-time career in the arts. This residency will be a great exposure to the Lagos art scene and an opportunity to meld into the society - not watch from the outside. Under the tutelage of Yinka Shonibare, Temitayo Ogunbiyi, Tokini Peterside and the other foundation members, my creative practice and business acumen will flourish.
If accepted, I plan to explore Nigerian history and potential futures, drawing on cultural, femininist, queer influences and more. Working with 3D software, I’ll create afrofuturist images highlighting the diversity and evolution of Nigerian identities. I’m also interested in incorporating Nollywood because of its influence in exposing Nigeria globally and representing different aspects of the society. As Nigeria continues to advance, there is also an upward trend in the professionalization of its film industry. However, I’ve also noticed a trend in the youth embracing its Y2K era; there is always nostalgia and yearning for the past.
During this time I plan to explore the city to understand its rich history, socio-political climate, and culture. Explorations will include a mix of field research and qualitative methods like interviews and surveys. I will also meet emerging artists and collaborate with those interested in 3D art. I’d like to create a database of African/Black 3D assets (characters, hairstyles, objects, etc.), making it easier for 3D artists working with African aesthetics. Insight from the foundations’ artists, especially Yinka Shonibare and Temitayo Ogunbiyi, will undoubtedly enhance and center my project. This project will be published through outlets like Instagram and Twitter which have a large reach.
My goal is to show the ever-changing country, especially as more people are fighting against long-held practices like police brutality and sexual violence. What are potential futures of Nigeria, particularly ones in which we embrace the duality of tradition and futurism? What is the future of the art industry, as 3D art and NFTs have re-emerged as an alternative for creatives (and are environmentally-friendly NFTs possible)? What are potential futures for Nollywood if we incorporate 3D art?
This work is important to me as an American-born Nigerian because I want to be involved in my native community, and reconnecting with my roots will also help me understand myself. I also know that there are others like me who want to see themselves represented in fantasy, sci-fi and all genres of media.
Lagos is the perfect place to combine all my interests into one huge, ongoing project. I want to be a part of the Lagos art ecosystem and perhaps help to develop a space that appeals to a new demographic of creatives and buyers. I hope for the opportunity to work with you all on this.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely, Deborah Obanla
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