Category Archives: Art

Ibrahim Gbadamosi : Rara Avis Creative Spotlight

Ibrahim Gbadamosi whose name bares a keen similarity with a Nigerian former head of state, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida , is a trained Geologist from the University of Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State

His first exposure to art was at the popular Ibadan Youth Palace, when he was just seven. He reportedly took his first lessons in elementary Fine Art and Pottery.”

 While still in school, he started producing sheepskin shoes and rugs. His experimentation with sheepskin and synthetic leather led him into mixed media and installation art.

Gbadamosi in the past, subconsciously made strong political statements with his works. His installation, Spoonful of Trouble, was a depiction of the hypocrisy associated with global conflict resolutions while he brought humour to the Iron Lady, a black and white painting of former British Prime Minister, Baroness Margaret Thatcher. On the artwork, he matted a pressing iron to partially mask the identity of the portraiture.

A resourceful Ibrahim, in 2019, while selling some of his artwork on the roadside around the popular Ringroad, Ibadan, was approached by a lecturer at the University of Ibadan. Her interest was piqued by Ibrahim Gbadamosi’s craft.

He was invited by the female lecturer to present his work at the biannual conference of the Institute of Peace and Strategic Studies, which was holding at the university. However, he was sent away by another lecturer, who threatened to call security; when the lecturer who invited him stepped out of the venue.

Today, Ibrahim is an accomplished artist, whose art works previously listed on Rara Avis, have been sold as there’s a high demand for his artworks both locally and internationally. See Sold Listing

Most of Ibrahim’s pieces are one-off pieces as such only a select few would be replicated with variations.

He has Don Corleone as a current listing on Rara Avis.

  • Artwork Title: Don Corleone
  • Size: 48 x 36 inches
  • Medium: Acrylic, stuffed plush cat and artificial flower on canvas
  • Provenance: 3yrs
  • Category: Modern contemporary

Price Available On Request Contact Rara Avis

Meet Photographer, Kingsley N.

Rara Avis Talks to Kingley N

We are throwing it back to an old interview Rara Avis had with Kingsley N! It’s been 3 years since this interview. We are delighted to see the great strides he has attained working with Rara Avis and how he has evolved as a creative. Enjoy reading this throwback piece.

RARA AVIS sat with a very talented photographer, Kingsley N to talk about his drive and motivation in the area of photography.

Kingsley N recently exhibited a few of his photography art in collaboration with Rara Avis.

This collaboration is based on some “indigenous” themed photography.

The purpose of the shoot is to preserve certain aspects of the Nigerian culture through photography. Another reason being to highlight how beautiful culture is especially when captured and translated into art.

Enjoy this piece with the very talented and ambitious photographer.

Please tell us about yourself.

My name is Nwokesi Chukwudi Kingsley. My brand name is Kingsley N. I am a professional photographer with over 8years experience. I am a travel photographer. I have been to different states, but worked more in three major states in Nigeria (Benue, Lagos and Anambra) as an outdoor and studio photographer. The vast majority of my work experience is in Lagos – majoring in outdoor photography. 
I am currently working and based in Anambra state.

What makes you stand out from other photographers?

What makes me stand out from others is the ability to go the extra mile and think on my feet.

Hmmm…so what are the important skills you think a photographer should have?

You have to please note that this is what I think so I don’t get misunderstood. (…Laughs) The important skills a photographer should have are one, the ability to create. Two, good communication skills. This is essential because you want to be able to understand exactly what a client wants in the case that you are dealing with a client. Another aspect in terms of my private photography art is I want whoever looks at my work to be able to understand it. Thirdly, the knowledge of photography itself and everything that has to do with it. Knowledge is key!

Now, from your statement, what is the one thing you wished you knew when you started?

One thing I wish I knew when I started? I wish I knew the basics.

Why? Did you have any negative experience?

Yes! Ha! My worst experience as a photographer stemed from it. A client condemned my work (chuckles)…because the picture wasn’t worth it.

What’s the most challenging aspect of being a photographer?

The most challenging aspect of being a photographer is that you have to endure a lot from clients. You have to realize that you can’t please everyone but I try my best too. I’m happiest when I shoot for my own collection like with this collaboration with Rara Avis.

So how do you stay motivated?

 I stay motivated by learning from others and I must state that I have been influenced by few… Kelechi Amadi Obi and Lezonart.

Why did you choose to be a photographer?

 I chose photography because it’s art. I can’t be restricted because it has alot to do with creativity, and it’s fun to do!

Finally, can you explain why you enjoy shooting boudoir photos?

Wawuuu!
(He hesitates before answering the question) I like shooting boudoir because it creates the ambiance of romance with oneself for the subject. It creates a feeling of sexiness in the subject and the subject feels powerful and self confident.  It tells a story of who we really are when we pose cause it sometimes exposes our weaknesses but also our acceptance of it.


Below are some of Kingsley N‘s works.

Kingsley N standard photoshoot charges >> Price available on request

You can find Kingsley N at his studio address at Plaza 1, Eke Oko market, Federal Polytechnic Oko, Anambra State, Nigeria.

He is available to travel.

To see more of his works, follow him on Facebook and Instagram
@Kingsley N tony
or call: 09066463420
              08075659766

To sum this throwback interview up, a lot has changed about Kingsley N. He is now based in Lagos but is available to travel to any part of the world!

Creative Shoot and Interview with Joy and Anita

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WATCH

Anita and Joy are two talented and aspiring models. Rara Avis spoke with them about why they have chosen to work in this field. They shared their aspirations and what they thought about the creative shoot with Rara Avis. Kingsley N, a talented Photographer and Rara Avis team member took the pictures

Rara Avis created the urban vs nature themed second segment of the shoot, to show how nature can still be represented with the artificial. No matter the development, nature cannot be lost. Art keeps nature alive!

Upcycling Fashion Shoot by Rara Avis Features Model, JANET

Rara Avis is a pioneering platform that seamlessly merges creativity and functionality to redefine creative excellence.


This shoot focuses on an UPCYCLING FASHION theme. Here we took an interesting spin on recycle materials like soda cans and left over fabrics were inculcated into the costumes.


SEE PHOTOS

Ermandha spearheaded the creative direction, casting, costume design and styling. This photoshoot features Kingsley N, in photography and fast rising model, Janet as the muse.