Ayo Akingbade's film The Fist explores Guinness factory in Lagos as character of colonial legacy

Ayo Akingbade, born in 1994, is a filmmaker, writer, and artist whose short films delve into urban experiences in London and Nigeria's industrial landscapes. Her work, The Fist, which was shortlisted for the Aesthetica Art Prize, explores the significance of the 1962 inauguration of the Guinness factory in Ikeja, Lagos, linking Nigeria's post-independence era to global industrial trends. The film portrays the factory as a pivotal character, capturing its operations to highlight the political aspects of everyday production and consumption. Akingbade first noticed the factory's weathered appearance during a family burial visit to Nigeria in 2019, leading to her "voila" moment after spotting the Guinness logo. She strives to provide experimental, observational narratives rather than explicit meanings. Her cinematographer, Pierce, played a crucial role in showcasing the factory's historical impact. Akingbade's artistic practice frequently reflects on rapid societal changes through personal and cultural lenses, with her upcoming projects set to investigate themes of childhood, family heritage, and legacy. The Aesthetica Art Prize, which includes a £10,000 award and exhibition opportunities, will feature a 2025 exhibition at York Art Gallery until 25 January. The interview was published by Aesthetica Magazine on 27 December 2025.