Peju Alatise began her career as an architect while managing a private art studio and attending the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Nigeria. The artist currently resides in Glasgow. She creates art in a variety of formats, styles, and materials, such as paintings, videos, installations, and sculptures. From February 22, 2024, to March 23, 2024, the artist will present a solo exhibition titled We Came With The Last Rain at the opening of Rele Gallery’s new site in London.
A.S: Can you share with us how your journey in art started from architecture to full-time artist?
P.A: My journey into art was not a shift from architecture; rather, art has been integral to my life since a young age. I initially pursued architecture, viewing it as a branch of the arts, and obtained a degree in architecture. After practising as an architect for some years, I transitioned to full-time studio practice in 2000.
A.S: How do you think your work will be perceived in London compared to other cities you have exhibited in?
P.A: It is challenging to predict how people will perceive my work. Differences in culture, politics and historical spaces and not forgetting individual tastes and idiosyncrasies play a role. What is more important is that my work is reflective of the times we live in; the contexts in which they are presented are sensitive and relevant to the current state of affairs and the ‘Zeitgeist’ of the moment.
A.S: Can you share how the themes of womanhood and identity influence your creative process?
P.A: I often identify as a storyteller, and it forms the core of my creative expression. Through my narratives, I weave a tapestry of personal experiences and a journey shaped by different stages of maturity and accumulated wisdom. My perception of the world influences the depth of my storytelling, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in allowing truth to guide my ideas. Yoruba philosophy, a cultural identity I increasingly cherish, profoundly influences my work. Integrating this philosophy into my artistic role enhances my understanding of various aspects of my life, such as womanhood, motherhood, teaching, learning, entrepreneurship, writing, leadership, kingship, and advocacy. These roles intricately layer upon one another, contributing to a richer understanding of self and purpose.
A.S: Please share the initiatives you’re passionate about in relation to arts education and woman empowerment?
P.A: I am passionate about being a guide to younger artists. Providing opportunities to others to develop themselves. Giving empowerment and education do not have to be through an organized or corporate initiative.
A.S: What can we expect from the body of work you will be showcasing?
P.A: “We Came With The Last Rain” is a profound artistic endeavour, providing a glimpse into a larger collection centred around the empowering narrative of the girl-child, a theme I’ve nurtured over the years. At its core lies the story of “Flying Girls,” a fictional exploration featuring Sim, a 9-year-old girl navigating the challenges of modern-day Lagos as a rented-out servant. This narrative extends to the unfortunate existence of children roaming the streets for survival, commonly known as ‘Almajiri’—children sent to Islamic boarding schools but ending up begging for alms. This exhibition acts as a prelude to a broader collection, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the whimsical escapism of Yoruba folklore and mythology.
I will be exhibiting 3-dimensional paintings, sculptures and suspended installations.
A.S: Your sculptures are almost dream-like and whimsical, how do you walk through that process to the finished work?
P.A: Apparently, the dreamlike and whimsical attributes of my works started as I became a mother. There was never a conscious effort to do so. I did not realize this myself until Remi Vaughan Richards pointed this out to me. Prior to being a mother, the stories of the ‘Flying Girls’ for me were more of an act of defiance and activism. Now, there is an urgent need for me to protect the child first! My works create a safe place for children to be children and to reawaken the child in the adult.
A.S: What has been the most favourite part of your artistic career?
P.A: This I cannot say. Even the ugliest parts of the art industry bring with it the sweetness of victory when I overcome its blockades and distractions.
A.S: How do you balance social activism and advocacy between artistic expression and stay true to your art?
P.A: In my approach, initial cohesion takes precedence overbalance. Rather than striving to harmonize different aspects of my voice at the outset, I focus on aligning my narrative with the truth as I perceive it. This way, the work organically materializes, and my role becomes that of a conduit for its manifestation.
A.S: How would you compare that artistic landscape in Nigeria between when you started and now?
P.A: I’m pleased to see key players in the art sector taking initiative rather than waiting for government intervention. Back in 1996, there was a lack of purpose-built infrastructure for the visual arts, but today, there’s a positive shift. While there’s still much work ahead, I’m optimistic about Nigerians recognizing the substantial contribution the visual arts industry can make to Nigeria’s growing economy.
A.S: Do you have any words of wisdom to share with someone trying to go from one industry into the art space?
P.A: Never stop learning or growing.
We Came With The Last Rain will be on from 22 February to 23 March 2024, in Rele London. For more updates on Peju and her work check out her Instagram @peju.alatise.
For any press enquiries, please contact, Marina Cochrane Arts Consulting on, (+44)7595326584 or marina.cochrane.arts@gmail.com.
