Pictures from the Sand Artist

Zina Saro-Wiwa’s gallery, the Boys' Quarters Project Space occupies what used to be her father’s office on Aggrey Road in Port Harcourt. Today, the three rooms space in the two storey building play host to arts lovers, something a bit different from when Ken Saro-Wiwa worked from there. His has been business and then the politics of decrying the devastation on the environment caused by activities of oil exploration. Today, the blend of colours and light gives exhibitions an alluring feel.   

Though the inner office of the late writer’s office has been transformed slightly, the adjustment being the installation of a projector which plays themed photos, light fittings, his desk, chair and name tag are still intact – some rare antique you’d say. 

What makes an interesting visit to the gallery is the location. Just around the corner, from the Lagos Bus Stop junction is the unending fence of the Port Harcourt Prison where Mr Saro-Wiwa was detained until his eventual execution. And while in the gallery, the sometimes disturbing sound of unwanted music from shops on the busy Aggrey Road adds its own blend of colour to the beautiful pictures or crafts inside the gallery.

But Ms Saro-Wiwa’s space isn’t just a set-up in memory of her father. It is for humanity, as artists with exceptional works display them to the public. Currently on display are works by Charles Udofia – a first time exhibitionist. Mr Udofia makes portrait from sand. Yes. He gets the right type of sand and applies it tactically to form the subject of his work. 

Mr Udofia who is from Akwa Ibom State is a self-trained, no-studio artist who combines trading in a small shop where he displays his art works almost side by side with his wares. During my visit, the second since the space was opened; I met Dumnwii Fadeh, the project’s country manager. He shared his passion for the arts and matching ideas which brought him in contact with Zina. We spent time taking pictures.  

According to Fadeh, the centre has had five exhibitions which come up thrice in a year. The gallery is opened Wednesdays – Saturdays – 11am to 6pm.