Yinka Ilori's First Solo Exhibition at Cristea Roberts Gallery Explores Joy Through Resistance
British-Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori presents his first solo exhibition at Cristea Roberts Gallery in London, titled 'Joy Through Resistance: He Who Laughs Last, Laughs Best'. The show delves into his family history, migration, and grief, examining how resilience is cultivated through everyday acts of care and community. It features sculpture, painting, textiles, and sound installations, with lace and symbols like the yellow trumpet flower and daffodil carrying cultural meanings. Collaborations with composers Peter Adjaye and James William Blades create immersive soundscapes. The exhibition marks the first time Ilori publicly addresses the loss of his mother two years ago. Ilori describes the show as his most honest and vulnerable work, emphasizing that joy emerges from struggle.
Key facts
- Yinka Ilori's first solo exhibition at Cristea Roberts Gallery in London.
- Exhibition title: 'Joy Through Resistance: He Who Laughs Last, Laughs Best'.
- Explores family history, migration from Nigeria to London, and grief.
- Features sculpture, painting, textiles, and sound installations.
- Uses lace designed by Ilori, referencing West African ceremony and dress.
- Collaborations with composers Peter Adjaye and James William Blades.
- Yellow trumpet flower and daffodil are recurring symbols.
- First public address of the loss of his mother two years ago.
- Ilori describes the exhibition as his most honest and vulnerable work.
- Soundscapes include brass compositions, percussion, and traditional instruments.
Entities
Artists
- Yinka Ilori
- Peter Adjaye
- James William Blades
Institutions
- Cristea Roberts Gallery
- Art Plugged
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
- Nigeria
- North London
- 43 Pall Mall