Igi Araba : Yusuf Grillo

Arthouse-The Space presents Igi Araba, a solo exhibition by artist Yusuf Grillo. This exhibition marks the first solo exhibition of Grillo in over forty years, a long overdue project that showcases the development and evolution of his artistic practice.

Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated contemporary artists, Yussuf Grillo has led a prolific career that has shaped the discourse of modern art in the country. Emerging to prominence and international recognition in the 1960s and 1970s, Grillo’s work is deeply influenced by the characteristics of traditional Yoruba philosophy and sculpture. As a member of the Zaria Arts Society, popularly known as the Zaria Rebels, Grillo combined his training in the Western-representational style with a focus on Nigeria’s unique and rich artistic history. He is particularly known for the specific use of the color blue in his paintings, a reference to adire and resist-dye textiles used in Nigeria.

After extensive education in Nigeria and the UK, Grillo served as Head of the Department of Art and Printing at Yaba College of Technology for over twenty five years. His iconic stained glass and mosaic works have been commissioned for a number of public buildings in Nigeria including churches, universities, government buildings, and the Murtala Mohammed International Airport. Grillo has also served as the founding president of the Society of Nigerian Artists, the professional body for all practicing artists in Nigeria.