Celebrating Rich Heritage Through Art
Modebolu Aderinokun identifies as a versatile artist deeply rooted in her Nigerian heritage, seamlessly blending influences from Abeokuta and Lagos. Born in Lagos, she underwent education across various locations, including England, Togo, and Surrey, before ultimately settling at the Academy of Arts University in San Francisco, where she pursued a degree in animation.
Inspirations from San Francisco
Aderinokun credits her transformative experience in San Francisco for reigniting her passion for painting, a pursuit she had temporarily set aside. Surrounded by vibrant artistic expression in the city, she rediscovered her creative drive, which had previously waned as she grappled with the notion of art as a viable career.
Pursuing Artistic Dreams in Lagos
After a brief tenure at the Manga Museum in San Francisco, Aderinokun made the pivotal choice to return to Lagos and actively pursue her dream of becoming an artist. In 2012, she founded Studio of Mode, fulfilling a long-standing vision to cultivate a space that amplifies and nurtures diverse creative voices.
A Hub for Creative Expression
Studio of Mode stands as a testament to Aderinokun’s commitment to fostering creativity within contemporary society. She aims to bridge the gap between artistic expression and everyday life, ensuring that creativity maintains its vibrant essence while resonating with modern sensibilities.
A Unique Gallery Experience in Ikoyi
Inaugurating a new gallery and retail space in the serene Parkview Estate in Ikoyi, Lagos, Aderinokun dedicates this venture to her late father, Mr. Olutayo Aderinokun, a passionate supporter of the arts. The gallery’s design pays homage to the bustling streets of Lagos, seamlessly blending the city’s contrasting aspects of pristine beauty and its more challenging realities.
Innovative Design Inspired by Lagos
The gallery’s exterior features pristine white facades, inviting visitors into an inner realm where vibrant colors and materials reflect the quintessential Lagos atmosphere. Divided into two distinct spaces, “Abeokuta” and “Indigo,” the gallery provides an immersive experience that transcends the simplistic white cube often found in Western art galleries.
Creating Intimate Art Spaces
Aderinokun believes art should seamlessly integrate into daily life rather than exist solely for admiration. The Abeokuta section, characterized by warm terracotta, evokes a rustic ambiance, while its textured walls invite a tactile engagement. In contrast, the Indigo Room, adorned with soothing blue tones, creates a balance that reflects the harmonious coexistence of warmth and coolness within the artist’s vision.
Celebrating Creative Connections
Alongside art prints, the gallery features an array of accessories crafted from the original works on display. Despite the challenges of her creative journey, Aderinokun views these obstacles as fuel for her artistic spirit. She believes fulfillment comes from creating work that enriches lives and fosters a healthier society. With an unwavering commitment to exploring her innermost self through art, Aderinokun invites guests to experience her vision at studioofmode.com.
