Ade Adesina is a Nigerian-born, Aberdeen-based printmaker and artist. A series of
his work is on display at Edinburgh Printmakers, a space that is small but
nevertheless rich in quality. The exhibition space is also a studio for resident artists
where traditional printing techniques can be explored, as well as contemporary
techniques.
The series of works displayed by Adesina use a wide range of print styles, such as
lino and mezzotint, and demonstrate a variety of objects that come together to create ‘surrealist landscapes.’ The content of these imagined spaces are taken from
important aspects of Adesina’s life, whether that be his African heritage or his
Scottish culture. Key motifs include architecture, native animals, conch shells, sports equipment, trees, flowers, and technology.
The monotone of these prints allows one to see the objects, animals, and buildings
with equal judgement, one thing no more important than another, representing how
equally significant these elements are to Adesina. In terms of technique, there is a
level of spontaneity, giving the work a natural flow of consciousness and allowing
the artist to ‘embrace the unpredictability.’ I noticed an interesting balance of natural and manmade culture that contrasts unrealistically in size, allowing the viewer to experience the work as if they were in a dream, like something from Alice in Wonderland.
The exhibition also touches on the importance of the space for Adesina’s practice.
He has been able to experiment with a wide range of printing techniques, such as
screen printing and etching, as do the other artists in residence. This makes
Edinburgh Printmakers a unique space, perfect for Adesina’s unique and personal
range of prints.
The exhibition is on display at Edinburgh Printmakers (1 Dundee St, EH3 9FP), until
10th November, and certainly worth a visit.
Ade Adesina, Embankment, Mezzotint, 2024. Image by Ysobel Gouriet